Why do people put more energy into negative things than positive things?

Why do people put more energy into negative things than positive things?

This has always puzzled me. It takes more energy – and creates more negative energy back – to be negative. My daughter commented on this to me the other day when she mused that why have local City Councils spent more time and money (a billion dollars by some estimates) to fight ‘leaky buildings’ claims than just use that money to help people correct the problem. This is just one example – and of course the critics would say it might open the flood gates to more claims etc – however the principle is what I am commenting on.  There will always be the ‘critics’ – those who have not created anything themselves but who love to take ‘pot shots’ from the sideline and seem to hope that the successful people will fall into some huge hole. Then there are those who come across as negative because they live in fear – always expecting the worst, being cynical about the motives of others, seeing the cup half full.

There is a simple but undeniable truth: A positive, forward-looking approach and attitude CREATES positive outcomes.  It really is that simple. Of course there are challenges along the way; of course positive outcomes need to be CREATED by positive actions; of course world events impact on us all; however the one thing we can have total control over is how we respond.  Next time you are about to criticise someone, or show disrespect to another culture, or feel a situation is hopeless, – try smiling, try saying something genuinely positive, try on the cloak of gratitude and feel the warmth it instantly provides. NOW you can create positive outcomes.

Christine Bear

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