The weight of the world certainly feels heavy lately.
It’s easy to get discouraged about human nature and our society at large at times like these. However, research shows it can be helpful to keep a positive perspective as a method of self-care in order to maintain feelings of well-being.
If you’re searching for a few positives right now, try focusing on the good our species has to offer. Below are a few beautiful, science-backed reminders that humans ― and the world we live in ― can still be wonderful:
1. Human beings are hardwired for friendship.
We crave connection as a species. Research shows that human beings are biologically programmed to seek friendship or companionship. And it’s no wonder: Research also shows that hanging with our loved ones helps us beat stress and improves our mood.
2. We’re also naturally empathetic.
A 2013 study from the University of Virginia found that human beings are hardwired for empathy, or the process of putting ourselves in another person’s shoes. The research showed that our ability to relate to people who are close to us informs our own sense of self and compels us to behave accordingly.
That may explain why so many people come together to donate money or participate in memorials after horrible events. When we relate to another human being and their experience, we go through a process known as vicarious trauma where we feel real pain over what they’re going through. That could inspire us to take action to help out in any way that we can.
3. Kindness makes us feel happy.
Speaking of altruistic gestures, ever notice how they appear in droves following a tragic event? Take this little girl who bought local cops lunch following the shooting of Dallas police officers. Or the people who lined up for hours in Orlando and in France to donate blood following the two attacks.
These acts matter: Research shows that kindness makes people happier and in turn that happiness makes us kind. Talk about a positive cycle.
