Got Happiness?

As evolution would have it, we humans are wired in such a way that negative events leave a stronger impression than positive ones.

For example, studies have found that:

-Having a good day does not have any noticeable effect on a person’s well-being the following day, whereas a bad day carries over and influences the next day.

-The self is more motivated to avoid bad definitions than to pursue good definitions.

-Painful experiences are more memorable than pleasurable ones.

Do you find that your mind gravitates most readily to what’s bothering you than to what’s making you happy? Do you think more about what you don’t want, don’t like, and didn’t do? Since the bad stuff carries more mental weight, it’s unsurprising that we are easily tipped in this direction.

If bad news sits heavier in the brain, how can we balance the scale in favor of good?
By taking in more of it.

When you notice something good, instead of brushing it off or taking it for granted, sit and soak in it for awhile. If lunch is delicious or a movie is hilarious, bask in the glow. Congratulate yourself for every completed task, celebrate that which goes well, and appreciate positive energy in people around you. It only takes a moment to make a good impression.

Every day offers a myriad of treats for the taking. Re-condition yourself to really digest and absorb the positive moments, and you will find them ever more plentiful.

Read the research on our “negativity bias” at http://www.carlsonschool.umn.edu/Assets/71516.pdf