When faced with a negative situation, many of us want to correct the problem. We often think to look on the upside and share that with others. Our attempt to shift a negative emotion to a positive one seems like a good idea, but it actually makes things worse. Peter Bregman, writing for Psychology Today, explains why:



He also suggests a better approach. Instead of telling the negative person to look on the bright side, validate how they feel and agree with them when you honestly can. Finally, find out what they are positive about and encourage it. You can't force your specific positivity on others. It makes the problem worse. Instead, look for their positivity and help it grow.


How to Respond to Negativity | Psychology Today

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