Negativity bias: why so negative?

We as humans tend to focus more on the negative than the positive. Let’s say you were having an amazing day, starting with a good breakfast going on to exercising and followed by doing a hobby you love. But then all of a sudden you were faced with an issue such as being unsuccessful in preparing your lunch or fighting with your friend. This then leads to you overthinking about it all day. Thus believing that your day is ruined.

Instead of focusing on all the positive happenings throughout the day, you chose to spoil your mood because of that one unfavourable condition. This is known as “negativity bias” where our cognitive functions put more emphasis on the negative aspects of life rather than the good ones.

We often berate ourselves for not completing a task but fail to take a look at plenty of other tasks we have completed throughout the day.

You may also have noticed that you remember insults and criticisms more than the compliments one gives. At the end of the day you are more likely to recall the bad things you encountered throughout the day instead of happy events.

Self awareness is the number one step you could take to help reduce this bias. Change starts from within. Being aware of what’s happening inside you can help reduce half the problems you face! Try to recognise and remove those useless thoughts which would do you no good and start your day with happiness and gratitude.

Photo by Madison Oren on Unsplash