Toxic Positivity: When Optimism Makes You Sick
"Always look on the bright side of life" – everyone knows the song by the famous British comedy group Monty Python. For some, it has even become a motto for positive thinking, especially when things don't go as planned. There is nothing wrong with a positive attitude, so-called good positivity. After all, it helps us to avoid frustration or even depression and to focus on opportunities instead of risks. But be careful: misunderstood positivity can also have negative effects – namely when it develops into toxic positivity. But what does that actually mean? Which are the causes? And what role does toxic positivity play in our everyday professional lives?
Misunderstood positivity can become toxic
Positivity can take on toxic traits when it no longer allows negative emotions. Those who compulsively seek the positive in negative experiences quickly come across as lacking empathy and run the risk of finding themselves in a situation of helplessness. Instead of promoting optimism, it conflicts with a balanced attitude and tempts one to ignore negative aspects instead of facing them. Despite all positive thoughts, one thing is certain: not everything can simply be smiled away or compensated with feelings of happiness. The causes of toxic positivity are many and varied, but they are very much in vogue: guidebooks, magazines, blogs and podcasts are almost bursting with advice on how focusing on the good vibes can help us achieving a better lifestyle. But despite all the optimism, there still needs to be room for negative feelings.
Realistic optimism at work: focus on your strengths
This is especially true at work. Because here, too, toxic positivity can become dangerous. Those who suppress everything negative and instead insist on compulsive happiness will become unhappy in the long run. Because not every crisis is outweighed by opportunities. This makes it all the more important to consciously deal with negative emotions and to evaluate situations objectively. Instead of always comparing yourself with others, you should focus on your own strengths. A high level of mindfulness and conscious self-reflection help prevent toxic positivity without eliminating good positivity. Realistic optimism is the key to positive thinking without ignoring negativity, and thus can be understood as a tool to real happiness – also in professional life.
Sources:
https://rightasrain.uwmedicine.org/mind/well-being/toxic-positivity
