Positive vs. Toxic
by Austin Knott
Have you ever heard the phrase, “just be happy it could be worse” or “good vibes only”? If you have, then chances are you have experienced some toxic positivity.
What is toxic positivity? The dismissing or invalidating of negative emotions in favor of forcing a positive outlook, the excessive and ineffective overgeneralization of a happy, optimistic state across all situations
Key Traits
Emotionally dismissive- rejects or downplays difficult feelings
Inauthentic- forces a false sense of cheerfulness
Shaming- makes people feel guilty for experiencing sadness, anger or stress
Avoidant- avoids real problems rather than addressing them
What is healthy positivity? The practice of maintaining a hopeful and optimistic outlook while acknowledging and validating difficult emotions. It does not ignore pain, frustration or sadness- it makes space for them and encourages growth and resilience through those experiences.
Key Traits
Emotional honest- accepts that negative emotions are part of being human
Compassionate- offers support without judgement or pressure
Grounded in reality - encourages positive outlook while recognizing real challenges involved
Growth oriented- focuses on learning from setbacks, not denying them
Let’s play a game! Toxic or Healthy?
Don’t be so negative!
Its okay to feel bad sometimes
Think happy thoughts!
Failure is part of growth
It can be difficult to see the good in this situation, but we’ll make sense of it when we can
Good vibes only
It’s okay to feel a range of emotions, it’s normal
I shouldn’t feel upset, I just need to be grateful
That didn’t go as planned, but I learned something. I’ll try a different approach next time.
Failure is not an option
Just look on the bright side
It could be worse
Sometimes we experience bad things. How can I support you?
I shouldn’t feel upset, I just need to be grateful
You’ll get over it, just move on
A: T, H, T, T, H, T, H, T, H, T, H, T, H, T, T