My high school chemistry teacher always said, “Don’t be negative; be positive. Multiply the love and divide the hate,” while she used her hands and fingers to represent each mathematical symbol. This phrase would surface in my memory occasionally, but I must admit I rarely took it to heart. However, I was preparing for a presentation about affirmations when I stumbled across a Ted Talk that affirmed this old saying.
I found this short speech relatable, funny, and surprisingly thought-provoking.
For additional insight on positive psychology, check out Shawn Archor’s article in the Harvard Business Review and more posts on the positive impacts of smiling.