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Has "positivity" become a toxic buzzword?


 In today's fast-paced and high-pressure world, the concept of positivity has become something of a buzzword. From motivational quotes plastered across social media to self-help books promising the key to achieving happiness. There seems to be a general consensus that positivity is the ultimate goal. While cultivating a positive mindset can indeed have numerous benefits for mental health and overall well-being, an over focusing on positivity can actually do more harm than good and become what we call “toxic positivity.
Toxic positivity refers to the belief that one should maintain a positive outlook and attitude at all times, no matter what challenges or struggles they may be facing, including adversity or difficult situations.

While positive thinking can often be helpful and empowering, toxic positivity takes it to an extreme. It discourages individuals from acknowledging their negative emotions or seeking help when needed, instead encouraging them to simply "think positive" and "look on the bright side." While this may seem like a well-intentioned approach to promoting mental resilience, it can actually lead to feelings of invalidation, denial, and increased emotional distress.

When someone is struggling with their mental health or trying to heal from past traumas, toxic positivity can be damaging. Instead of allowing for the full range of emotions, it can pressure individuals to suppress their feelings and put on a facade of happiness. This can lead to feelings of shame and guilt for not being able to “just be positive” and can hinder the healing process.

By continuously pushing for positivity, toxic positivity can also prevent individuals from processing and working through their emotions. It can minimize the importance of acknowledging and addressing pain and trauma, instead encouraging people to simply “move on” and “look on the bright side.” This can result in unresolved issues and deep-seated emotions that continue to impact one’s mental health and well-being.

Furthermore, toxic positivity can create a sense of isolation for those who are struggling. When surrounded by individuals who only express positive emotions and dismiss negative feelings, it can make it difficult for individuals to feel understood and supported. This can lead to feelings of loneliness and further exacerbate mental health issues.

So how can we work through toxic positivity? Research has shown that practicing mindfulness can have a significant impact on reducing toxic positivity and promoting emotional well-being. Mindfulness is a practice that involves focusing on the present moment without judgment, recognizing and accepting with compassion and kindness what that moment holds fully, including difficult and challenging emotions and thoughts.

By practicing mindfulness, individuals learn to sit with and acknowledge the full range of emotions and thoughts with a sense of compassion, kindness and non-judgement, allowing for the development of a more balanced and authentic approach to positivity. Rather than striving to maintain a constant state of cheerfulness, mindfulness encourages individuals to embrace the full spectrum of their emotions, both positive and negative.

Mindfulness also help individuals cultivate a sense of self-compassion, allowing them to treat themselves with kindness and understanding, even when faced with difficult emotions. This self-compassion component of mindfulness can serve as a powerful buffer against the harmful effects of toxic positivity, helping individuals navigate challenges with grace and resilience.

Incorporating mindfulness into daily life can be as simple as setting aside a few minutes each day to practice deep breathing or guided meditation. By engaging in these practices regularly, individuals can begin to cultivate a greater sense of self-awareness and emotional regulation, ultimately lessening the hold of toxic positivity on their lives.

In conclusion, while positivity can be a valuable tool for promoting mental well-being, it is important to recognize the harmful effects of toxic positivity and encourage others to seek out alternative approaches to emotional and mental health.

So instead of promoting toxic positivity, let us better support others on their healing journey by creating a more inclusive and understanding community that promotes genuine healing and growth and fosters a greater sense of emotional resilience and well-being.

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