Research1 has shown that reflecting on a positive life experience can increase wellbeing [and therefore happiness] BUT overly analysing a positive life experience can have the opposite effect – keep this in mind!
The way we intentionally go about our daily lives can also significantly impact our overall wellbeing. By ‘prioritising positivity’ we can influence our happiness and wellbeing.
So, what do we mean by “prioritising positivity”?
Prioritising positivity refers to the extent to which individuals proactively structure their lives to have regular experiences of positivity. While the choices that each of us make can differ quite significantly, the common thread is the tendency to seek out positivity in daily life.
Research2 shows that people high in prioritising positivity experienced more frequent positive emotions, fewer negative emotions, greater life satisfaction and more flourishing.
So why are positive emotions so important?
Well, positive emotions predict how well people’s immune systems function, their job performance, and the strength of their social bonds, which are important factors for most, if not all, of us.
Research3 clearly highlights the idea that we can influence our own wellbeing through prioritising positivity and intentional actions, so why not adopt these practices into your own life.
Putting it into Practice
Now, think about your own life.
Ask yourself and contemplate, when you recall positive life experiences that you’ve had, are you reflecting on them, or analysing these events?
A tip for you in the future when thinking about your positive life experiences, start training yourself to reflect rather than analyse and see what difference it makes - it may only be subtle, but over time it can make a substantial difference.
Our key takeaway for you in all this is, be intentional when going about daily life ensuring that you plan for positive actions each day and reflect on past experiences rather than trying to analyse them.
1 Lyubomirsky, S., L. Sousa, and R. Dickerhoof, The costs and benefits of writing, talking, and thinking about life’s triumphs and defeats.
2 Littman-Ovadia, H. and P. Russo-Netzer, Prioritizing positivity across the adult lifespan: initial evidence for differential associations with positive and negative emotions.
3 Catalino, L.I. and W. Tov, Daily variation in prioritizing positivity and well-being.