A Cynical Attitude Could Cost You

Study shows negative people earn less money.


What the Study Reveals


Why would cynical people earn less money? Researchers suggest their unwillingness to trust others may lead to a refusal to cooperate. Additionally, their constant suspicion of other people’s motives may make them less likely to collaborate and less likely to ask for help, both of which can harm their careers.

The consequences of a negative attitude extends beyond economic hardship. Here’s what other research studies have found:


How Cynical are you?

Unless you’re a real curmudgeon, it’s unlikely that you’re cynical about everyone all the time. But there may be a few areas where you tend to err on the side of negativity. Gaining insight into the aspects of your life where you may be a tad too pessimistic could be helpful.

Here’s a quick test—consider how much you agree with the following statements:

  • I think most people would lie to get ahead.
  • It’s safer to trust nobody.

This tool—which was used by researchers to study the link between cynicism and dementia—shows there are degrees of cynicism. Perhaps you agree with one of the above statements. Or maybe you think all three of them are partially true. Or perhaps you’re only cynical about certain people—like all sales professionals.

Once a Cynic, Always a Cynic?


Here are a few ways to reduce a cynical attitude:

  1. Heal your past wounds. Sometimes a cynical outlook stems from unaddressed past hurts. Whether you got bullied as a child, or your last business partner stole from you, don’t blame the world for a few bad apples. Take steps to heal your past wounds so you can see the world through a more realistic lens.
  2. Refuse to see yourself as a victim.Blaming other people for holding you back will keep you stuck. Decide that you’re not going to view yourself as a victim and take charge of your life. Recognize the options you have in each situation and empower yourself to make the best choices possible, regardless of what is going on around you.


A. M.


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