Positivism and its Correlation to Happiness

Why is it that from one woman to another, we are quick to criticize rather than to compliment? Too often we respond negatively to each other and ourselves. There are those that think negatively, speak negatively, or listen to others' negative talk:

"It must be a bad hair day, her kids are always misbehaving, she is so disorganized..."

Allowing this kind of feedback into our lives invites bitterness into our hearts, drives us apart, and isolates us in a society where we could all use a deeper sense of community. I would challenge all women to respond to each other with genuine compassion. Embrace our differences as well as our similarities and lend a helping hand as frequently as possible. Service to others fills both the receiver and the doer with joy and warmth.

Simply smiling more often and being quick to find humor and laughter in our surroundings can help ease the burdens in our daily lives. Studies (Rosch, 2005) show that regardless of age, sex, marital status, or socioeconomic status, happy people benefit from:

• relaxation and reduction in muscle tension
• lowered production of stress hormones
• improved immune system function
• reduction in blood pressure
• a rapid ability to disregard aches and pains or to perceive them as less severe

Let us make an effort to be less judgemental, be grateful for the love and support of those around us, and always remember that we choose our own attitudes. Be the one that chooses joy over sorrow.