Show Notes

Episode 72. Benefit of the Doubt: Positive Sentiment Override

Episode 72. Benefit of the Doubt: Positive Sentiment Override

"Love bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things."
~ 1 Corinthians 13:7

Why do I get so hurt by others' actions?
Why is it so hard for me to let things slide?
How can I give people close to me the benefit of the doubt?

In episode 72 of This Whole Life, Kenna and Pat dive into the concept of Positive Sentiment Override, a game-changing mindset for building stronger, more joyful relationships. Kicking things off with some spirited candy rankings for the Easter season, the duo opens with laughter before turning to the more serious - but deeply practical - work of cultivating a positive lens in daily interactions with loved ones. Together, they break down Dr. John Gottman’s research on how seeing the best in others impacts not only our relationships but our own mental health. Together, they share real-life scenarios of how our internal narratives can shape the atmosphere in our homes, grounded in both faith and psychology. Whether you’re looking for ways to make your domestic church into a greater sanctuary or wanting to shake off negativity in your marriage, family, or friendships, this episode is packed with relatable stories, actionable takeaways, and faith-filled encouragement.

Show Notes

  • Positive Sentiment Override means that someone’s overarching view of their partners, parent, child, friend, etc. is positive and they are willing to give that person the benefit of the doubt, forgive them easily, etc.

  • This fallen world can be a harsh place; can my domestic Church be a true sanctuary for my loved ones?

  • Related episode: Ep43, From Conflict to Connection: Process vs. Content

  • Signs of Negative Sentiment Override

    • Resentment building about the other person

    • Personalizing others’ actions

    • Big reactions to relatively small offenses

    • Recognizing negative thoughts about multiple people in my life

It’s your turn to rank these 10 classic candies from 1 to 10!

Challenge By Choice

If you’re not in a place of Positive Sentiment Override, how can you move toward it?

  • Talk with the person in your life about how you can work to see the best in each other.

  • Relate to your loved one specifically in their own love language.

  • Deal with a hurt or wound from the past that’s creating current resentment.

  • Praying that the Lord might help you see this person as He sees them.

Reflection Questions

For personal reflection or group discussion

  1. What is one specific thing that stuck with you from this conversation?

  2. When have you experienced suffering in your life? What was that like for you?

  3. Has your suffering helped you to know Jesus better or has it challenged your faith?

  4. How has hardship helped you to grow, become stronger, and experience conversion?

  5. How do you discern whether to accept suffering in faith or to seek out resources to diminish the suffering?