Key points

Small superstitious rituals or magical beliefs are usually harmless.

When wishful thinking interferes with critical thinking, it becomes a dangerous cognitive distortion.

Awareness and mindfulness help in the development of a detached acceptance of tough truths.

Wishing doesn't make it so Source: Leigh W. Jerome Ph.D., Generated with AI

Most all of us engage in small acts of magical thinking without a second thought. Perhaps you make a wish before blowing out birthday candles, knock on wood after tempting fate or resist certain words or actions that you fear could be a “jinx.” These rituals are usually harmless, but they reveal how deeply magical thinking is woven into our everyday lives. Unchecked, magical thinking can prevent us from seeing reality as it really i

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