This series is devoted to helping readers overcome negativity for a more optimistic and happier life. Many of the posts have been focused on the downside of negativity and pessimism, but it’s important to remember, there are some upsides to negativity too.
We learned in the first series of posts that early man often benefitted from negativity because it kept them safe from harm. The same internal radar can help keep us from walking down a dark alley or getting into a car with strangers. While it’s important to be positive, it’s good to have a bit of a negative mindset now and again. The key is knowing when to use negativity to our advantage and when to override a negative attitude.
Here are some dos and don’ts to help you evaluate if it’s a good time to follow your negative instincts
- Do ask yourself if there is danger
- Do pay attention to your instincts
- Do get more information
- Don’t react when you are triggered
- Don’t consider all negativity bad
- Don’t forget to breathe
Do: Ask the important question…Is there danger? Sometimes we get a sense that something’s off. That sense can save our lives if we pay close attention. When negativity strikes it’s important to ask yourself is there danger? Failure to ask if there’s anything to fear can lead to harm, regret, or avoidable mistakes.
Do: Give your gut some credit- We are built with an inner guidance system that seems to know when somethings not quite right. Give your gut and intuition some credit. Our lizard brain, as it’s often called, has a sense when somethings wrong which can keep us free from harm. This form of negativity is important.
Do: Get more information when you feel negative- Sometimes we jump to conclusions and take a negative stance when we simply don’t have all the facts. Resist being too quick to judge and ask more questions if you need more information. Doing your due diligence may show you don’t have any reason to be negative or it may confirm that your instincts were right!
Don’t: React when you feel triggered- Some negativity is a habit. When X happens, you react with Z. Be aware of the triggers that lead to your brand of negativity. Stop yourself from knee-jerk reactions based on negativity but be ready to take action when there’s an appropriate reason.
Don’t: Consider everything negative as bad. Negativity has an important role in life. Be discerning and pay attention to the clues that tell your senses something is wrong. Sometimes your sense is appropriate and accurate.
Don’t: Forget to take a deep breath- Negativity can come on suddenly when we are stressed or triggered. Use the power of your breath to take a moment and center yourself before reacting. Deep breathing is proven to help calm and reduce anxiety or stress. Teach yourself to breathe deeply before reacting negatively. Sometimes your instincts are right and sometimes they are wrong. Breathe deeply while you sort things out.
It’s important to drop chronic negativity to make room for a more positive life, but be mindful to be cautious, curious, and concerned when it’s warranted. In the end, finding the balance between healthy doses of negativity and radical optimism is ideal.
