Optimism Is Contagious.

by #Learnedman – Smiles R Contagious

“Let me start this blog the way I will end it: optimism is contagious.”

We live in a world where people often lean toward seeing what’s wrong before they see what’s right. I’ve noticed it in conversations, in meetings, and in everyday encounters—many folks seem to have a negative thought or reaction first. At times, it feels like negativity is the natural starting point.

There’s a reason for that. Psychologists call it the negativity bias—the tendency for people to give more weight and attention to negative experiences, thoughts, or information than to positive or neutral ones. In other words:

    •    Criticism lingers longer than compliments.

    •    We spot threats faster than opportunities.

    •    Bad news spreads—and sticks—more than good news.

This bias isn’t about people being “bad” or “pessimistic” by nature. It’s an evolutionary survival mechanism. Our ancestors had to quickly detect danger—whether it was a predator or poison—because missing the negative could cost them everything. And while that wiring kept them alive, it also shaped the way our brains still respond today.

But here’s where I stand: we don’t have to stay stuck in the bias. Growth teaches us that optimism can tip the scale. Choosing to smile, to encourage, to uplift doesn’t just shift our own outlook—it influences the people around us. Just as negativity is contagious, so is optimism. And optimism, unlike negativity, builds, heals, and unites.

So yes, I acknowledge the negativity bias. I understand why it exists. But I also know that my choice—to be hopeful, positive, and uplifting—is a conscious counterbalance. My optimism is not naïve; it’s deliberate.

And as I said at the start, let me say it again at the close:

Optimism is contagious.