Negativity Bias: the tendency to focus more on bad things than good ones, influenced by its survival benefits. Our language contains about 30% words expressing positive emotions, 50% expressing negative emotions, and the rest neutral. It’s probably normal to say negative things. However, even in this environment, a small number of successful people use “positive language” that they are less likely to speak. Habits are important. - Joseph’s “just my thoughts”
Speaking negatively to others stems from my discomfort. Positive language fosters respect and happiness in relationships. This isn’t merely due to the “power of positivity”; it’s how our brains have evolved to interpret it. When asked, “Why don’t you study?” the negative framing prompts the brain to release cortisol, which ramps up stress. Consequently, the brain associates “studying” with unpleasantness. Conversely, if you say, “I appreciate your studying even while you play,” the message shifts. Parents shape children; husbands influence wives, and wives impact husbands. - Joseph’s “just my thoughts”