Book Review: Positivity

by Andrew Downing

No matter what you believe about the effects of being positive, you should read Positivity, by Barbara Fredrickson. Fredrickson has used her research to create the “broaden-and-build” theory regarding positive thoughts. Her idea is that positive emotions can be used to broaden someone’s view of what’s possible and build physical and emotional resources around that positive outlook. Positivity explains her theory, describes her research, and provides examples how you can use positive emotions to enhance your life. 

Fredrickson received her doctorate from Stanford and is considered a leading researcher in social psychology. She has studied psychology of positivity for more than 20 years, has published more than 100 peer-reviewed articles, and written two books, Positivity and Love 2.0, so she knows what she’s talking about.

According to Fredrickson, connections are made when two people experience positive emotions together. So as a leader, you should learn as much as you can about how to use positive emotions and create the optimal environment for creativity and connectivity. Teams that share a positivity ratio of more than 3:1 outperform negative teams.   

Read Positivity, and be a positive leader.