Experiencing positive emotion – feel the good in every day
By MAS Team
Research shows that it is the absence of positive emotion that is more problematic for people than the presence of difficult emotions.
How often have you felt each of these emotions in the past week? How many had you felt from the left column (positive emotions) and how many from the right column (difficult emotions)?
Positive emotions | Difficult emotions |
Awe | Regret |
Amazement | Guilt |
Grateful | Embarrassed |
Appreciative | Self-conscious |
Hopeful | Hate |
Encouraged | Suspicion |
Inspired | Sad |
Uplifted | Hurt |
Interested | Scared |
Curious | Stressed |
Love | Overwhelmed |
Trust | Angry |
Proud | Annoyed |
Confident | Ashamed |
Content | Contempt |
Calm | Disgust |
Amused | Jealous |
For most of us, we’ll have identified some from each column. Ideally, we want lots more from the positive side than the difficult side. So, if you feel that there weren’t quite as many positives as you would like, try this exercise.
Research suggests that it is the frequency rather than the intensity of positive emotions which is most important to our wellbeing. Don’t underestimate the benefits of those small pleasant moments; try to really notice them to maximise their benefits.
For more on the science and importance of positive emotions, check out the work of American Psychologist Barbara Fredrickson. You’ll find several YouTube videos, books, and many academic articles from her.
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