What's the Burnt Toast Theory? A Psychologist Explains the Mindset Hack That Can Make You Happier and More Successful. Dr. Nadia Teymoorian, a psychologist at Moment of Clarity Health Center, breaks down the benefits.
By Amanda Breen Edited by Jessica Thomas
Key Takeaways
- The "burnt toast theory" relies on the power of positive thinking.
- Harnessing it can benefit individuals and society alike, Teymoorian says.
A new trend's been making the rounds on TikTok: the "burnt toast theory." It's a testament to the power of positive thinking, which studies have found "improves outcomes and life satisfaction across a spectrum of conditions," per Johns Hopkins Medicine.
But what is it, exactly? It's the idea that burning your toast in the morning or suffering any setback that could cast a shadow over the rest of the day doesn't have to be a negative at all — if you know how to harness it.
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In fact, it just might be the thing that saves you from a car accident or slows you down enough to meet someone special, Moment of Clarity Health Center psychologist Dr. Nadia Teymoorian tells Entrepreneur.
"I appreciate this theory for what it is worth," Teymoorian says. "Too often, we take others' behavior or circumstances personally and make the outcomes about who we are and our value as a human. Staying stuck in an emotional trauma-based response is unhealthy and will alter our ability to grow from experiences."
Relying on logic — and not purely emotional responses — to think through challenging situations can lead to greater acceptance and understanding, Teymoorian explains. She notes that can translate to reduced anxiety and toxicity and more adaptability, resilience and gratitude for society as a whole.
"[But] we may struggle with finding our footing if we are stuck in the past or unable to start our days on a fresh beginning," Teymoorian says.
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Here's the routine she suggests to set yourself up for success at the start of any day:
- Your day starts the night before. Go to bed early and wake up early.
- Eat and drink healthful foods once you are awake.
- Groom yourself.
- Stretch and do simple physical activities to restart your energy.
- Write down your plans for the day: appointments, bills to pay, emails to respond to, calls to make, whatever needs to be completed.
- Take time to reflect on the accomplishments you have manifested in your life.
- Identify what you are grateful for.
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"Remember, every day is your [opportunity to] start over," Teymoorian says. "If you start out with a negative outlook, you have permission to check yourself, rethink your day, use your tools to change how it will play out. Be your best friend by taking care of your physical needs first."
