Published to Newsletter on Apr 29, 2020
The Basics: A common belief is that happiness is dependent on situational and external factors. However, a relatively new field of psychology called Positive Psychology asks the question “what is working?” instead of “what is your problem or diagnosis?”
In this new paradigm, research supports taking control of our individual happiness by maximizing “positivity boosters” and decreasing “negativity enablers.” There are specific intentional activities and behaviors that you can integrate into your day that will increase your positivity ratio and your overall well-being.
Ratios for Success: The ratio of our positive interactions to our negative ones impacts both joy and learning. It’s important to note that these interactions are often less than 3 seconds in length.
Four Positive Interactions: Try these four (and free) actions to increase positive interactions today:
Research: The ratio of positive to negative interactions has a profound impact on someone’s cognitive as well as emotional well-being. Research shows that positivity “boosts individuals with the adaptive bias to approach and explore novel objects, people, or situations.”
Takeaway: Normal human function is characterized by a ratio of 2.5 positive interactions for every 1 negative one. This ratio climbs to 4.3 to 1 for optimal functioning, and then 5 to 1 for successful relationships.
Your Goal: Increase your Ratio! Each day, practice the Four Positive Interactions to build a new or strengthen an existing relationship. Though we are social distancing, we can use Skype, telephone, email, social media or any other technology available to connect and grow our overall happiness. Print the Four Positive Interactions and display them prominently, if that helps you.
For more resources to increase the positive in your life, visit the Employee Wellness website, or join our discussion on Yammer.
Tags: EmployeeWellness, Wellness
