The power of positive emotions

Studies show that positive emotions affect the way we appraise a problem, the amount of creativity we bring to the decision-making process, the quality of support we receive from others, the level of energy we have for implementing the solution, and the degree to which we derive meaningful lessons from having endured the experience.

Positive emotions motivate us because they stir our soul. They generate optimism by opening our hearts as well as out minds. They relax our body and soften our face. They create healing connections with other people. They trigger deep happiness in the form of hope, inspiration, interest, amusement, joy, gratitude, pride, serenity, awe, and - last but not least - love.

Positivity provides the counterbalance to negativity. Much like the reset button on a piece of electronic equipment, positive emotions shut off the alarms and allow our system to straighten itself out as we restart our mind's problem-solving process and reengage in relationships.