Positivity, optimism and an upbeat outlook are undeniably helpful in shaping a happy, healthy life. You’re likely reading these words because you are working to cultivate gratitude, peace and joy in your everyday life. And your efforts are well-placed—research shows that optimism has a positive impact on physical and emotional health issues ranging from immunity to aging to mood challenges.
But when I think of positive living, I always feel compelled to add the word “authentic” to the conversation. Authentic positivity is an uplifting attitude that is rooted in reality. It’s this type of positive thinking that can yield real improvements in your life.
The opposite of authentic positivity is what is increasingly referred to as “toxic positivity.” These are optimistic platitudes that don’t acknowledge the reality that human experience is complex, and sometimes painful. Some examples of toxically positive statements are...READ MORE
