Positivity and happiness are not just fleeting emotions — they are a way of being that transforms every aspect of your life. Increasing positivity through the Excelerated Life™ practices helps us build a foundation for flourishing.
Title Photo by Jill Wellington
Why Positivity and Happiness Matter
Have you ever noticed how some people seem to radiate optimism, even in difficult times? What if you could cultivate that same sense of resilience and joy in your own life? Imagine waking up each day with a sense of possibility and gratitude, even when things aren’t perfect. Where, despite challenges, you find yourself grounded in hope, creativity, and meaningful connections.
That’s the power of positivity and happiness. These are not just fleeting emotions but a way of living that shapes how you show up in the world.
At the heart of the Excelerated Life™ is a foundational principle: build your life on a strong base of flourishing and well-being. Positivity and happiness are not focused on denying life’s difficulties; rather, they allow you to cultivate the mental and emotional resources you need to thrive, even in the face of adversity.
So, let’s explore why positivity matters, how it transforms our lives, and the small but powerful ways you can build a habit of happiness starting today. Whether you’re seeking more balance, resilience, or meaning, you’ll find that positivity isn’t just a nice-to-have — it’s essential for living your Excelerated Life™!
The Science Behind Positivity
Positivity isn’t just wishful thinking or always “looking on the bright side.” The practices and results are grounded in science.
Psychologist Dr. Barbara Fredrickson, a pioneer in the study of positive emotions, developed the “broaden-and-build theory”, which explains how positivity transforms us. When we experience positive emotions, like joy, gratitude, or inspiration, they broaden our mental horizons. We see more possibilities, think more creatively, and connect more deeply with others.
But positivity doesn’t stop at broadening our perspective; it also builds lasting resources. For example, feeling joy might inspire you to try a new hobby, which helps you develop skills and form new friendships. Experiencing gratitude can strengthen your relationships, creating a support network you can rely on when times get tough.
On a biological level, positive emotions increase dopamine and serotonin, neurotransmitters that improve mood, enhance cognitive function, and reduce stress. This means that positivity doesn’t just feel good; it rewires your brain for greater resilience and well-being.
Research also shows that positivity is contagious. One uplifting conversation can ripple outward, inspiring others to share kindness, optimism, or gratitude. In this way, your positivity doesn’t just change your life, it has the power to transform the lives of those around you.
The Role of Positivity in an Excelerated Life™
Increasing positivity through the Excelerated Life™ practices helps us build a foundation for flourishing. Taking intentional steps to cultivate positivity supports every other aspect of the Excelerated Life™, making it easier to thrive in relationships, health, and personal growth.
Think of positivity as an emotional savings account for your well-being. Each time you practice gratitude, share kindness, or find joy in small moments, you’re making a deposit. Then, when challenges arise, you can draw on that reserve to stay grounded and resilient.
Positivity also helps us “fail forward” — bouncing back from setbacks with grace and strength. Instead of getting stuck in negativity, you cultivate self-compassion, treating yourself with the same kindness and understanding that you would offer to a good friend.
However, embracing positivity does not mean eliminating negative emotions. In fact, negative emotions have value. Fear, for example, helps us recognize danger, while sadness allows us to process loss. The key is balance.
Dr. Barbara Fredrickson’s research suggests that we need at least a 3:1 ratio of positive to negative experiences just to function normally. To truly flourish, we need closer to 5:1. If we fall below the 3:1 ratio, we risk slipping into a downward spiral of languishing, where life feels stagnant and unfulfilling.
Practical Strategies for Building Positivity
The good news is that positivity isn’t just a personality trait — it’s a skill you can cultivate. By incorporating small, intentional practices into your daily routine, you can gradually rewire your brain for happiness. Here are a few strategies to get started:
- Practice Gratitude Daily. Gratitude is one of the simplest and most powerful ways to boost positivity. Start or end your day by listing three things you’re grateful for. These can be big or small — a supportive friend, a beautiful sunset, or even your morning cup of coffee. The act of noticing and appreciating the good in your life trains your brain to focus on positivity.
- Perform Acts of Kindness. Doing something kind for someone else creates a ripple effect of positivity. This could be as simple as complimenting a coworker, holding the door open for a stranger, or sending a heartfelt thank-you note. Kindness not only boosts your mood but also strengthens your relationships.
- Engage in Mindfulness or Meditation. Mindfulness helps you stay present and grounded, reducing stress and increasing positive emotions. Even a few minutes of deep breathing or meditation each day can make a difference. Apps like Calm or Insight Timer can help you get started.
- Connect with Uplifting People. Surround yourself with people who inspire and support you. Positive relationships amplify your happiness and create a sense of belonging. If you’re struggling to find uplifting connections, consider joining a group or class that aligns with your interests.
- Leverage Your Strengths. Identify your VIA Signature Strengths and find ways to use them intentionally. For example, if one of your strengths is love, focus on deepening your relationships. Or if it’s creativity, spend time on a project that excites you. Using your strengths in meaningful ways leads to greater fulfillment and joy.
➡️ Take the VIA Strengths Assessment here: VIA Character Strengths
For a deeper dive into twelve “happiness tools, read this: Practices to Help You Flourish.
Positivity and Happiness in the Excelerated Life™
Positivity and happiness are not just fleeting emotions—they are a way of being that transforms every aspect of your life. When you cultivate positivity, you build resilience, deepen relationships, and unlock your potential to thrive. It doesn’t mean denying life’s challenges but choosing to see the possibilities within them—to recognize the “seed of good” even in difficulty.
Your Next Step
As you reflect on what you’ve learned, ask yourself: “What’s one small step I can take today to build my reservoir of positivity?” Maybe it’s starting a gratitude journal, reaching out to a loved one, or simply pausing to savor a joyful moment.
This week, commit to one daily act of positivity — whether it’s expressing gratitude, sharing kindness, or savoring a joyful moment. Watch how it transforms your mindset!
You have the power to create a foundation of positivity and happiness — and the ripple effects of your choice will extend far beyond your own life. It all begins with small, intentional actions. And that’s how you create your Excelerated Life™!
What’s your “positivity ratio”? Is it 3 to 1 or better?
If not, what is a small step you can take today to have more positive experiences?
Share your thoughts by leaving a comment below.
Increasing your positivity and happiness is the second Foundational principle for creating your Excelerated Life™!
Read more about the Excelerated Life™.
Resources:
Fredrickson, Ph.D., Barbara, L. Positivity. New York: Crown Publishing Group, 2009.
Seligman, Ph.D., Martin E. P. Flourish. New York: Free Press, 2011.
This blog post includes research information and suggestions provided by ChatGPT, an AI language model developed by OpenAI. The content was generated with AI assistance and is intended to provide information and guidance. Please note that the suggestions are not official statements from OpenAI. To learn more about ChatGPT and its capabilities, you can visit the OpenAI website.