Andy’s Quick Hits (21): How positivity really can influence happiness

Before I start, I have a confession: I have become less optimistic in my old age, becoming more realistic and pragmatic, as I like to see it. Actually if I am brutally honest, I have become more pessimistic. Yes, the slow slip into becoming a grumpy old man.

So, I was interested to stumble on some research from a couple of years ago that showed how positivity influences subsequent memories.

This particular study looked at how positive expectations lead to more favourable memories of events. Specifically it led to being able to identify more positive events in contrast to negative events from the experience. Simply leaving you with a better memory.

Why is this important? Well if you have positive memories you are more likely to think about positive things vs. ruminate on negative things. If during daily life you can look back on positive events, you are more likely to consider your life better.

There are also plenty of knock-on effects with, for example, positive hormones being released and the lowering of stress.

So got an event coming up — even a critical event, it will serve you well to frame this optimistically. Even if it doesn’t go as well as you expected your memories will be better and that over your life may make a big, big difference!

Andy publishes a quick hit every weekday on all things the brain, behaviour, and business. Please follow to receive your daily dose.

Andy is author of leading brains Review a monthly e-magazine on all things the brain, behaviour, and business