Psychology.
The Dangers Of Toxic Positivity.
Accepting negativity and embracing reality.
“Every man is a creature of the age in which he lives and few are able to raise themselves above the ideas of the time.” — Voltaire.
Toxic positivity is the effect of a generation of people who were told to think happy thoughts, stay positive, good vibes only, don’t be a negative Nelly, keep smiling, and chin up.
When we avoid the thoughts, feelings, people, and events we don’t like, we prevent learning opportunities. Denying negativity makes it very difficult to process the information needed for growth.
“… including having a greater appreciation of one’s life and relationships, as well as increased compassion, altruism, purpose, utilization of personal strengths, spiritual development, and creativity.” — Scott Barry Kaufman.
Toxic positivity invalidates negative feelings. When you consistently invalidate your emotions, you risk losing control over them. Repressed emotions build up and return stronger and more often until they’re processed.
