Getting rid of toxic positivity; New research says anger is more effective

The idea that a positive mindset will help you advance in life is not always true. New research shows that anger may be a more effective emotion for achieving goals than persistent optimism.

Be positive, a motto that can be found on many cards. Often intended to encourage the recipient. That wave of positivity starts with terms like Toxic positivity Already somewhat in decline. This term refers to pushing away negative emotions and focusing only on positive emotions. Research now shows that it is not helpful to constantly look on the bright side of everything.

Overcoming obstacles through anger

According to new research from Texas A&M University, released this week Journal of Personality and Social Psychology I figured outIt turns out that anger is actually more useful for overcoming obstacles and achieving goals. And not only are you suppressing your emotions less, the processes in your brain work differently too.

In several experiments, researchers examined students at Texas A&M University. They did this, in some cases, by showing offensive images to university students.

Better response

And it worked. The researchers found that this anger helped the students solve more puzzles afterward. In another extremely complex and unwinnable computer game, the researchers saw a similar result. The impossibility of winning the game frustrated the students so much that their reactions accelerated. Other experiments have also shown the benefit of anger.

The research is not a call to outrageous outrage, but it offers a new balance of positive idealism, explains lead researcher and professor Heather C. Lynch. New York times. “For a long time, the idea was that being positive always meant a fulfilling life, and that’s what we should strive for,” Lynch says. “But there is increasing evidence that a life composed of a balanced mix of emotions is more fulfilling and positive in the long run.”

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