This past week I taught a class based on the book Positivity by Barbara Fredrickson.  Fredrickson has done extensive research to back her claim that experiencing positive emotions makes people happier, healthier, more creative, more likely to have friends and able to see new possibilities. Positivity actually changes how our mind works and transforms us for the better. Since it is a cornerstone of creating our best life, I thought it would be worthwhile to highlight some of the major points discussed in the class.

What is positivity? And what isn't it?
Positivity is a powerful state of mind caused by experiencing positive emotions such as joy, gratitude, serenity, interest, hope, pride, amusement, inspiration, awe and love.

For positivity to benefit us it must be "heartfelt"- able to touch and open our heart. "Think of the times that you feel connected to others and loved; when you feel playful, creative or silly; when you feel blessed and at one with your surroundings; when your soul is stirred by the sheer beauty of existence; or when you feel energized and excited by a new idea or hobby." That's positivity!

Positivity doesn't mean you never experience negative emotions. Without negativity you become Pollyanna. Your smile is forced, you're not genuine, you lose touch with reality and you drive others away. Positivity simply means we experience more positive emotions than negative emotions, with the ideal ratio being 3:1. To transform our lives from so-so to flourishing, we need to experience three positive emotions (joy, love, awe, etc.) to every negative emotion (fear, anger, sadness) we experience.

"Feeling good, feels good" and is a wise and healthy investment in our future!