Developing Positive Emotions

Negative emotions are important for survival yet often they create disturbance and interrupt the natural flow of life. Positive emotions are desirable to sustain life activities. Would you not like to be loving than hateful, joyful than fearful, and caring for others than neglecting them?

Positive emotions make us feel good, soothe us and provide a sense of comfort. For example, when we appreciate the behaviour of another person, we in turn feel happier, relaxed and have a sense of fulfillment.

Positive emotions affect in two important ways - they ‘broaden’ our thinking, physical and social resources, and help ‘building’ reserves to draw upon at times of stress and strain. Over time the influence of positive emotions helps because:

  • Attention and thinking are broadened and deepened which in turn builds our coping strategies.

  • Positive emotions repair the negative effects of negative emotions.

  • Enhances mental health and well-being: we show alertness, enthusiasm, determination and energy.

  • Helps build personal resources for interaction with others: we make new friends, we share and bond with them.

  • Build optimism, tranquility and resilience.

  • People who show positive emotions are more likely to feel loved.

  • Happy people are more effective and successful in their work.

Ways to Promote Positive Emotions

The ways by which we can enhance positive emotions are:

  • Do relaxation exercises such as meditation and yoga.

  • Find positive meaning in life - reframe negative events and view in a positive light.

  • Find happiness and satisfaction in daily life activities.

  • Pursue realistic goals so that you get a sense of achievement.

  • Undertake activities which you love doing.

  • Focus beyond self and help others as this makes you a happier person.

  • Show gratitude - when you show gratitude towards others your identity and awareness will be broadened.

  • Nurture your spiritual self - people who have a faith system in place are happier.

When you join a community or group you are part of a shared belief system which gives you a sense of belonging and provides help in times of stress and strain.