Time and facts are excellent tools of exploration.
But just make sure to apply your objectivity in all directions.
If you’re going to be objective and skeptical about positive observations and enthusiasm; also be objective and skeptical about negative observations and cynicism.
A properly open mind is balanced and receptive to all possibilities.
And there’s the rub, isn’t it?
Because we are not only open-minded rational thinkers.
We are hominids who have evolved features such as 1) rapid, emotion-based evaluation; and 2) negative biases of perception and memory.
We’ve evolved to irrationally emphasize and to inordinately remember pain, danger, and negative outcomes. That is an effective way to survive and pass on those genes. But it’s not very good for either 1) true open-mindedness, or 2) happiness.
To achieve those we have to go off-script somewhat.
Which, interestingly enough, brings us right back to the program in the subject line of this thread.
Genesis: The Art of Happiness and Joy.
It’s right there.
Just play it.
See what happens.
Relying on your own experience leaves little to debate.
[And, for the record, objectively speaking, there are very few effective rational thinkers who are not fueled by a bit of enthusiasm (often irrational enthusiasm).]