More evidence on living the good life

Last week, you read about an evidence-based center focused on social and emotional well-being.

Cornell psychologist Anthony Ong has dedicated his career on a related topic: how can some cope with life’s stressful events and still remain positive, while others spiral into negative emotions?

Ong’s work focuses on the complex interplay of social, emotional, cognitive, and cultural resources that people draw upon to adapt to stressful life circumstances as they age, and the ways these factors have an effect on health and well-being.

His research has shown that people who have positive emotions on a daily basis recover more easily from stressful events, both in daily life and major stressful events like the loss of a loved one. This work has raised the possibility that positive emotions are important factors in undoing the autonomic arousal generated by negative emotions.

Ong has found that this daily access to positive emotions actually creates a psychological antidote for people in times of crisis. The ability to experience a positive emotion despite a major stressor – such as a serious illness or the loss of a love one – provides a momentary respite from the ongoing stress.

A steady stream of positive emotions also leads to greater emotional and physical well-being. By undoing negative emotions and fueling psychological resilience, positive emotions trigger an upward spiral of contentment. This, in turn, creates a measureable difference in cardiovascular functioning.

 “When our positive emotions are in short supply — when we feel hemmed in by such negative emotions as fear and sadness — we become stuck in a rut and painfully predictable,” he said. “But when our positive emotions are in ample supply, we become generative, resilient versions of ourselves.”

Ong’s work has also shown that social connectedness – having a supportive relationships with those around you – contributes these daily positive emotions, and also leads people to be more resilient in the face of adversity. 

Based on findings from dozens of studies, Ong offers some practical advice for fostering positive emotions in everyday living:

• Find meaning in everyday life through reframing adverse events in a positive light, infusing ordinary events with positive value, and pursuing and attaining realistic goals.
• Explore relaxation techniques that create conditions conducive to experiencing contentment and inner calmness.
• Make connections by reaching out to others.
• Engage in activities that you enjoy and find intrinsically motivating.
• Take care of yourself by eating right, getting enough sleep and engaging in regular physical activity.