Psychologists have long known about the human negativity bias – our tendency to focus on and remember bad experiences more intensely than positive ones. This ingrained negativity bias once served an evolutionary purpose, but it often does us more harm than good today. It can blind us to the small blessings and moments of ease we experience – our “green lights.”
Feir de grønne lysene dine
Intentionally celebrating these green lights, whether it’s unexpected sunshine on a rainy day or finding a prime parking spot, can help counterbalance our negativity bias. Celebrating your green lights is a simple yet powerful positive psychology tool.
For years, I was fixated on my small failures and frustrations. But a simple comment from my grandfather on our drive to his doctor’s appointment shifted my outlook:
You always complain about the red lights but never celebrate the green ones.
That observation hit me like a ton of bricks. I realized I had been blind to the countless small victories and moments of ease in my daily life. Neglecting to appreciate these “green lights” robbed me of joy and gratitude.
We often get caught up in focusing on life’s frustrations and letdowns. When things go wrong, like hitting multiple red lights in a row, it’s easy to grumble and complain. But how often do we stop and appreciate when things go right?
His simple observation struck me. How many small wins and smooth moments do we take for granted every day? The times we catch every green light and arrive on time. The days we make our bus or train connection. The moments the elevator arrives just as we push the button.
Life is full of little victories like these. The wind at our back on our hike. Stepping outside to unexpected sunshine on a rainy day. Finding the perfect parking spot right in front of you.
These moments may seem minor, but taking a beat to savour and celebrate them will boost your overall happiness and well-being.
Start celebrating your green lights
Start watching for the mundane magic in your day. The next time you hit a stretch of green lights, literally or metaphorically, take a moment to smile and celebrate. Train your attention to catch the times things flow smoothly. Express some quick gratitude when fortune turns your way.
Celebrating your green lights takes hardly any time, but it can make a real difference in your mood and outlook. It’s a simple way to infuse more joy and appreciation into your days.
Green light moments
Celebrating your green lights is an act of gratitude. It’s about recognizing and giving thanks for the countless small blessings and moments of ease that punctuate our days. In our chaotic and stressful world, this practice can be a powerful anchor, reminding us of all that is still good and right.
Take a moment right now to think back on your day. What green lights did you encounter? A smile from a stranger, a favourite song on the radio, a satisfying stretch after a long sit? Acknowledge these gifts, and let yourself feel a sense of thankfulness.
As you move through your days, keep this spirit of gratitude close to your heart. Celebrate your green lights, big and small, and let that celebration nourish and sustain you.
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