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Welcome to The Brighter Side of Everything.
This newsletter serves a simple purpose → To help you build optimism, resilience and a solution-focused perspective.
Each week, I’ll share actionable insights that not only brighten your day but position you to be a leader within your own life and seize life’s opportunities.
Read time: 12-15 minutes.
Bright Side in Brief
What’s covered this week?
The Shadow in Our Minds - Understanding negativity bias.
Bright Reads - Quick links to fun or insightful articles.
Luis Szarán - Orchestrating hope across Paraguay.
Elevated Viewing - An optimist's guide to the planet.
A Bright Idea to Consider - Naval Ravikant.
A Previous Post - There is no perfect moment.
Positively Hilarious - Smile like you mean it.
Daily Gratitude Journal - Transform your daily routine through reflection.
Hello, Brighter Side readers! ☀️
I know I say this often, but it’s because it’s true.
You rock.
It’s been motivating to receive such a positive response to this newsletter.
I appreciate each of you, newcomers and regular readers, for being part of this ongoing conversation.
Your feedback and engagement drive me forward and motivate me to explore the topics I share with you.
If you know someone else who would benefit from reading it, please take a second to forward it to them.
The more folks that are focused on solutions and move forward with optimism, the better.
First up this week, the concept of negativity bias.
Understanding how our brains are wired and how we can actively shift our mindset towards gratitude and positivity.
We'll also follow the extraordinary journey of Luis Szarán, a Paraguayan conductor whose passion for music orchestrates hope across overlooked communities.
Along with plenty more.
I’ll never take shortcuts in offering in-depth information because while your time is precious, the time we spend working on ourselves is invaluable.
I hope this edition gives you something to consider and inspires you to take action in your own life.
Have a great week 😎
See you on the Brighter Side,
Chris
P.S. Please feel free to send me feedback on how I can improve. I respond to every email.
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The Shadow in Our Minds
Understanding negativity bias
Let’s talk about something that is wired deeply within our brains.
Something that shapes how we see the world, react to news and remember our lives.
It’s called negativity bias.
If you’ve ever stewed over a single bad comment while ignoring dozens of compliments, you’ve experienced it firsthand.
What’s interesting, though, is how little many of us know about how it affects our daily lives and decision-making processes.
Negativity bias is a psychological phenomenon where negative experiences or emotions impact our mental state more than positive ones of equal intensity.
This bias can influence many aspects of life, causing us to focus more on potential threats or criticisms than on opportunities and praise.
Understanding this bias is the first step toward developing strategies to reduce its effects and develop a more balanced perspective.
Which, in today’s society, is a modern-day superpower.
Why Are We So Drawn to the Negative?
Picture yourself living through the following day.
You have a great morning.
You receive a kind message.
Your coffee tastes perfect.
… and you found a parking spot immediately.
Then, someone says something rude out of nowhere, or you receive some bad news.
Suddenly, it’s all you can think about.
Sound familiar?
You’re not alone.
Our brains are naturally wired to focus more on negative experiences.
Scientists call this negativity bias, and it’s not just a quirk.
Our brains developed a survival mechanism that prioritises paying attention to threats across thousands of years.
Because back in the day, paying attention to threats was essential.
Missing a beautiful sunset, though, is far less critical to our survival.
Because of this, our brains evolved to focus more on danger signals to keep us safe.
A perfectly reasonable adaptation given the circumstances.
The Importance of Negative Emotions
This next point is crucial.
Negative emotions, like anger, sadness, fear or disappointment, aren’t the enemy.
They’re signals from our bodies and minds that something needs our attention.
They help us recognise problems, avoid danger and make the necessary changes.
The key isn’t to push these feelings aside or pretend they don’t exist.
Instead, it’s about acknowledging them.
Our bodies are wired for these emotions.
They’re part of our survival toolkit.
Think of negative feelings as warning lights on your dashboard.
If a light comes on, you don’t ignore it.
You investigate what’s wrong.
Recognising and understanding these emotions gives us valuable insights and helps us navigate life’s challenges more effectively.
The real power lies in seeing the opportunity within every moment.
You create space for growth when you acknowledge a negative emotion rather than being overwhelmed or reacting impulsively.
That’s true resilience.
How Negativity Bias Shows Up in Daily Life
Most of us aren’t dodging wild animals anymore (most), but our brains haven’t received the memo.
We still react more strongly to negative events.
Here’s how it manifests:
Remembering insults better than praise. One negative comment can echo in your mind for days, while compliments fade quickly.
Dwelling on bad news. You scroll past feel-good stories but stop at alarming headlines.
Replaying mistakes. A blunder at work or an awkward moment at a party can replay endlessly.
Reacting more intensely to negative events. A single argument can overshadow a peaceful day.
If this sounds familiar, you’re not alone.
This is how our brains are wired.
But while negativity bias once helped us survive.
Today, it can fuel anxiety, pessimism and resentment.
Big difference.
The Science Behind Negativity Bias
Recent research shows negative experiences are not just more memorable.
They’re more complex.
We have a richer vocabulary for negative emotions: commonly used words like anger, frustration and anxiety which tend to analyse these feelings in greater detail.
Negative events also tend to dominate our perception.
A phenomenon called “negativity dominance.”
One bad day can feel worse than several good days because our brains give more weight to the negative.
In addition, negative information impacts our attention, perception and decision-making more strongly than positive information.
This “loss aversion” explains why the pain of losing feels more intense than the joy of gaining.
Check out this 1-minute video for further insights:
Overcoming Negativity Bias in Daily Life
Understanding our brain’s wiring is empowering.
Once you recognise this bias, you can actively work to counteract it.
A practical step is to shift your focus toward gratitude and highlight positive experiences.
For example, after receiving feedback at work, instead of dwelling on a minor critique, ask yourself:
What went well? What am I grateful for today?
This simple shift rewires your brain over time, making it easier to notice and appreciate the good.
You also now know where you need to improve, a step forward from where you previously were.
By acknowledging both your strengths and areas for improvement, you create a balanced perspective that opens the door to continuous learning.
Practicing mindfulness, being present and aware of your thoughts without judgment, is another powerful tool.
When negative thoughts surface, acknowledge them, then gently redirect your focus.
Over time, this reduces negativity’s grip and helps you see the bigger picture.
“When you complain, you make yourself into a victim. When you speak out, you are in your power. So change the situation by taking action or by speaking out if necessary or possible; leave the situation or accept it. All else is madness.”
The Power of Reframing and Realistic Thinking
Reframing means choosing to look at things in a more positive or realistic way.
For example, if you’re disappointed after a setback, instead of thinking, “I failed,” reframe it as, “What can I learn from this?”
This doesn’t mean ignoring reality or pretending everything’s perfect.
It’s about honesty and nuance.
If something doesn’t go as planned, simply focus on what you learned and how to improve.
Every masterpiece begins as a draft.
Think about Thomas Edison, who reportedly tried over 1,000 times before creating a lightbulb that actually worked.
We all face moments when negativity threatens to overshadow our progress.
Whether we fixate on one critical comment among dozens of compliments or replay an awkward moment from yesterday while forgetting all the things that went right, our brains are wired to focus on the negative.
But understanding this bias is the first step toward overcoming it.
And here’s where acknowledging negative emotions becomes vital.
Recognising feelings like frustration or disappointment allows you to channel that energy into more positive solutions and hope.
We need more people who can honestly acknowledge “the bad” and then work toward constructive, optimistic outcomes.
Rather than ignoring or suppressing these emotions, we should embrace them as opportunities to learn.
Or even worse, going round in circles talking about their problems without taking any action.
This only leads to stagnation and frustration.
Acknowledging and using our feelings as a catalyst for positive change is important.
By facing them head-on, we transform them into motivation for change and innovation.
This approach helps us develop and create a more empathetic and resilient community.
Daily Gratitude Journal
If you’re serious about shifting your mindset and reducing the impact of negativity bias, I highly recommend making gratitude a daily habit.
That’s exactly what my Daily Gratitude Journal is for.
It’s a simple tool (the simpler, the better) that helps you highlight the good in your life.
You’ll find prompts encouraging you to write down things you’re grateful for and space to download your thoughts daily.
It might be as simple as appreciating a rainy day, a kind word from a friend, or a peaceful moment amidst the chaos of your week.
These small acts of gratitude accumulate, rewiring your brain to notice and savour the positive more naturally.
Research shows that consistent gratitude journaling increases overall happiness by 10% to 25% within ten weeks.
It’s accessible, easy and effective.
I can't recommend this practice enough, whether it’s my journal or simply a blank notebook.
It’s available now and makes a perfect gift for yourself or loved ones seeking more joy and appreciation.
Your Turn
Here’s a simple challenge: tomorrow, take a moment to identify one thing you’re grateful for.
Write it down, or just hold it in your mind.
Notice how that act influences your mood and outlook.
Small shifts will lead to big changes over time.
Our brains are wired for negativity, but that doesn’t mean we’re stuck there.
With practice and intentional effort, you can train yourself to see the good, appreciate the present and boost your happiness.
It’s not about ignoring the tough stuff.
It’s about giving the positive stuff the attention it deserves.
What’s one thing you’re grateful for today?
Take a moment, savour it and watch your perspective shift.
“There is a magnificent, beautiful, wonderful painting in front of you! ... And yet you choose to fixate your eyes on the small fly which has landed on it! Why do you do such a thing?”
Bright Reads
Interesting insights to ignite your inner optimist.
How to make someone feel seen and heard.
What is unconditional positive regard in psychology?
Cadbury unveils 'world's largest' creme egg.
Babies do make memories - so why can’t we recall our earliest years?
Huh? The valuable role of interjections.
Luis Szarán
Orchestrating Hope Across Paraguay
Luis Szarán - born September 24, 1953 (Image from hoy.com.py)
Luis Szarán is proof that one person’s vision can spark a symphony of change.
Born in 1953 in Encarnación, Paraguay, Luis Szarán has dedicated his life to the transformative power of music.
As a renowned conductor, composer and educator, he is committed to bringing music and hope to some of his country’s most overlooked communities.
Humble Beginnings, Big Dreams
Growing up in modest surroundings, Szarán fell in love with music early on.
He trained at Paraguay’s National Conservatory and studied further in Rome and Berlin.
Despite an internationally successful career conducting major orchestras, Szarán never forgot his roots or the hardships faced by many back home.
In 2002, Szarán launched Sonidos de la Tierra (“Sounds of the Earth”), a program that brings music education directly to rural and marginalised communities across Paraguay.
Starting with just a few donated instruments, Szarán and his team travelled unpaved roads to teach children instruments, music theory and the power of working together.
Sonidos de la Tierra spans over 200 communities today, creating youth orchestras that fill small villages with music and pride.
One inspiring offshoot is the world-famous Recycled Orchestra of Cateura, where children play instruments made entirely from landfill scrap, a powerful symbol of creativity and resilience.
“Music unites what poverty and exclusion divide.”
Philosophy: Music Belongs to Everyone
Szarán often shares stories, like that of Juan, a boy who struggled with school and self-confidence but blossomed after joining his local orchestra.
Juan found discipline, leadership and a new sense of purpose through music.
Stories like this repeat across Paraguay, showing how music becomes a catalyst for personal growth and community building.
Szarán’s guiding belief is simple: “Music belongs to everyone.”
He welcomes children regardless of background or ability, insisting that learning to play builds discipline, teamwork and hope.
This inclusive mindset drives his grassroots approach and ensures music reaches beyond privilege.
Read that last part again … ensures music reaches beyond privilege.
Szarán’s work has been honoured worldwide, yet he remains humble, often seen conducting rehearsals in open fields or fixing broken instruments.
His legacy isn’t just concerts or awards, though.
It’s the thousands of lives changed by the chance to create, connect and dream.
Practical Tips from Luis Szarán’s Journey
Start Small, Think Big: Even a few instruments and a passionate vision can grow into a movement. Don’t underestimate the power of small beginnings.
Bring Your Gifts to Others: Sharing your talents, no matter your field, can inspire and uplift communities.
Embrace Inclusivity: True impact comes when opportunities extend to everyone, regardless of background or resources.
Be Persistent: Change takes time. Szarán’s decades-long dedication shows the value of steady, patient effort.
Find Purpose in Helping Others: Purpose fuels long-term commitment—let the positive impact on others motivate your journey.
My Takeaway
Luis Szarán’s story is a beautiful reminder that passion combined with purpose can bridge divides and transform lives.
Note by note, community by community.
You don’t need grand resources to make a difference.
Just the courage to share what you love and the belief that everyone deserves a chance to shine.
“Music does not change the world, but it can change the people who will change the world.”
Want to learn more? Check out this 20-minute TED talk from Luis Szarán:
Elevated Viewing
An Optimist’s Guide to the Planet
Bloomberg / Crave
Every headline these days seems intent on convincing us that the world is on the brink of disaster.
So, when I came across "An Optimist’s Guide to the Planet," I was ready for either an overdose of positivity or a preachy eco-lecture.
However, this series stands out and doesn't shy away from the challenges we undoubtedly face.
Instead, it delves into them and then offers a beacon of hope, highlighting what is actually working.
Which is actually quite a lot!
As an optimist, I firmly believe that a hopeful, solution-focused approach is exactly what more organisations and nations need to adopt as we navigate the path forward.
Instead of endlessly debating whether climate change is real, why not shine a light on the incredible breakthroughs and progress already underway?
An Optimist’s Guide to the Planet does just that.
It showcases real stories of innovation and care in action, offering a vision of what’s possible when we choose poise over panic.
And collaboration over conflict.
While many get stuck in cynicism and bitterness, this series elevates those leading with creativity and courage.
Why It’s Worth Watching
1. A Celebration of Progress
The series doesn’t dwell on problems it’s already addressing. Instead, it highlights how inventive minds and communities are transforming challenges into opportunities. From eco-friendly tech to grassroots conservation projects, it proves that meaningful change is happening. Right now, in real ways.
2. Showcasing Poise and Intelligence
What I love most is how the show presents solutions with calm and clarity. It’s not about shouting slogans or pointing fingers. Instead, it features leaders who demonstrate that responsible, caring leadership can happen at every level - individuals, communities and countries. While the louder voices of insecurity and selfishness drown themselves out.
3. Inspiring Real Stories
The stories are inspiring but also practical. They show that a big impact often comes from small, thoughtful steps. Like reforestation, innovative recycling or community-driven renewable energy projects. These aren’t just feel-good stories. They’re proof that collective intelligence and care produce results.
4. Reframing the Narrative
The series reminds us that the conversation about our planet doesn’t have to be about despair. Instead, it can be about shared hope, ingenuity and leadership. That’s what makes it so powerful and worth sharing.
Practical Tips & Takeaways
Focus on the Solutions: When talking about climate or any big challenge, highlight the progress and innovations already happening rather than fixating on the problems.
Support and Share the Good: Find and amplify organisations, companies and communities that are making a real difference. The more we share positive stories, the more hope we create.
Lead with Calm Confidence: Be an example of poise and care in your own circles. Small acts of leadership, whether in the community or workplace, will ripple outward.
Stay Curious and Inspired: Let these stories fuel your belief that change is not just possible, it’s happening. We can all be part of it - no matter our role or location.
My Takeaway
An Optimist’s Guide to the Planet surprised me.
In the best way.
It reminded me that optimism isn’t about ignoring problems or feeling warm and fuzzy for no reason.
It’s about rolling up your sleeves, looking for solutions and believing people can make a difference.
While others are busy arguing or retreating into cynicism, those of us who choose to focus on what’s working and what’s possible hold the true power to lead change.
This show isn’t just about environmental progress.
It’s a blueprint for how responsible and optimistic leadership can and should look.
It confirms that we’re not beyond hope, but rather, we’re in the midst of a remarkable era where positive impact is happening every day.
If more of us become inspired to act with poise and purpose, we’ll see even greater strides forward.
Would I recommend it? 100%.
If you find yourself overwhelmed, burned out, or just plain skeptical, give this show a try.
It’s a pep talk for your outlook and a nudge toward action.
At the very least, it’s proof that optimism and creativity can - and are - changing the world.
“The planet doesn’t need us to be perfect; it just needs us to care enough to try.”
Got a recommendation?
Please share; I'm always keen for great suggestions.
A Bright Idea to Consider
The Lesson
Let’s be honest.
Nobody I know (including myself) is happy all the time.
Life is full of ups and downs, frustrations and both big and small wins.
Yet, too often, many fall into the trap of thinking happiness is some far-off goal.
Something they’ll catch when circumstances are perfect.
News flash, that moment doesn’t exist.
Naval Ravikant’s take on happiness is one I can get behind.
He says it’s not about being happy all the time, but about how we interpret what happens.
It’s less about the events themselves and more about our response.
Think about it: Everyone faces stress, setbacks and surprises.
What separates truly happy people isn’t that life is easier for them, it’s that they keep their inner calm even when things go sideways.
For a long time, I thought happy people must have it easy.
But that’s not true.
The happiest people have learned to interpret setbacks in ways that protect their peace.
How do we do this?
When something rattles you, pause.
Take a breath before reacting.
Ask yourself, “Is there another way to see this?”
Sometimes, what looks like failure is opportunity in disguise.
Sometimes, tough moments are just temporary.
Interpreting events from a place of peace isn’t pretending everything’s fine.
It’s accepting that not everything will be, but you can still choose your attitude.
Protect your peace by letting go of needing everything to go your way.
Which it won’t.
This is optimism.
Practical Tips to Keep Your Inner Peace
Pause Before Reacting:
Take deep breaths when upset - give yourself space to respond, not just react.Reframe the Story:
Ask, “What else might this mean?” Look for lessons, not just losses.Practice Gratitude:
Notice small positives, even on tough days.Limit Negative Inputs:
Be mindful of what and who you let into your headspace.Focus on What You Can Control:
Concentrate on your attitude and actions, let go of what’s beyond your control.
My Takeaway
Happiness isn’t something that just happens.
It grows when we learn to meet life’s challenges with a calm, open mind.
When you feel knocked off balance, try seeing the situation differently.
You might find your peace is stronger than you thought.
How do you keep your cool when life gets tough?
I’d love to hear your take.
"Happiness is not the absence of problems, but the ability to deal with them."
A previous post …
There is no perfect moment, just this moment.
Start.
— Chris | The Brighter Side of Everything (@thebsofe)
12:48 PM • Jan 29, 2025
Positively Hilarious
A quick laugh as we part ways this week.
Daily Gratitude Journal
🚨Update 🚨
In 2024, we sold 113 daily gratitude journals!
As a result, we're donating $113 to the Make-A-Wish Foundation.
Thank you for your support.
I’m so grateful for every journal sold and will continue to donate $1 to the Make-A-Wish Foundation.
Transform your daily routine with my specially crafted gratitude journal.
Start (or end) each day with a moment of reflection and positivity.
As you develop daily your gratitude, you're also helping grant wishes to children facing critical illnesses.
It's a powerful cycle of hope and optimism.
🌟 What's Inside:
Thoughtful prompts to inspire daily gratitude.
Space for personal reflections and affirmations.
Beautifully designed pages to make each entry a delightful experience.
Ready to embrace the power of gratitude?
Click here to order a copy now!
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