Positivity

I've decided on a new tool for achieving my goal of "Change and Growth" for this summer. Recently I received a copy of a book called "Positivity" written by Dr. Barbra Fredrickson from UNC. When I first got this book (my mom received it at a teaching conference where Dr. Fredrickson spoke) I figured I'd be reading about this woman's research in positive psychology and her findings on why positive thoughts are helpful. I have found this assumption to be true, however I've also discovered an aspect I was not expecting. 


This book inspires you to be a better person, and strive to live a positive life. Which, I guess is the whole point of positivity, right? The book is divided into two parts, tonight I finished the first part and read the first chapter of the second. Part one is all about her research, what she's discovered about positivity. She discusses her "Broaden and Build Theory" of positivity and how thinking and feeling positive can broaden your outlook and can build up to offer higher levels of resiliency. Throughout this part she inspires you with testimonials from research participants, friends, and even her own life. The most inspiring story was that of Nina, who was on the verge (if not there) of clinical depression and how the Open Heart study helped her to realize positivity's potential for change. Barb discusses how positive thinking and meditation can help you lead a more fulfilling and longer life. You end the first part of the book learning that the tried and tested Positivity Ratio is 3:1 (positive:negative). People who live this ratio are thought to have fulfilling and flourishing lives.


By now you're thinking, great positive thoughts, sounds easy...not really. How exactly am I supposed to change my lifestyle to one that's more positive? That's where Part 2 comes in! Chapter 8 (the first of part two) discusses the Positivity Self Assessment test (used in many of her experiments). She challenges her readers to take this test every day for 2 weeks to determine where their positivity ratio currently subsides. My ratio for day one was not exactly promising...I weigh it at a .67. That's a 1:3, I think I have it a little backward! 


Here's where I begin to challenge myself. The remaining chapters go on to discuss how to go about changing your life from one of negativity to one of positivity. Where was this book three months ago when I was in a slump I never thought I'd escape? Well, it's here now, and not a moment too soon because my slump is returning. I have decided to accept the challenge of positivity. I will be taking the Positivity Self Assessment every night before bed, just like a diet I will begin to change my positive out look on life. I've always been one to lean toward the pessimistic side of life, and I'm deciding now to change that to optimism. Hopefully this will result in more blogging, as journaling seems to be one of the ways to help. Not all entries will be public, I'm sure. Barbara suggests that three months of aiming to think positively will change your life, let's see where I am November 1st. With hope, I'll be on the right track.


I recommend Barbara's book to anyone struggling with something right now. It seems like a great tool to help live a more fulfilling life.