"Good Vibes Only"

We've all heard phrases like "look on the bright side" or "think positive" when we're going through tough times. These well-meaning words of encouragement are meant to help us see the silver lining in any situation. But when taken too far, this "good vibes only" mentality can be harmful.

Toxic positivity refers to the idea that we should always maintain a positive outlook, no matter how difficult or painful our circumstances may be. It's the belief that any negative emotion, such as sadness, anger, or disappointment, is bad and should be avoided at all costs.

But here's the problem: negative emotions are a natural and healthy part of the human experience. They can help us process difficult situations, learn from our mistakes, and ultimately grow as individuals. When we force ourselves to always be positive, we're denying ourselves the opportunity to fully experience and work through our emotions.

This toxic positivity can also be invalidating. When we tell someone to "just stay positive" in the face of a difficult situation, we're dismissing their feelings and implying that their emotions are not valid. This can make people feel guilty for not being able to stay positive, even when it's perfectly normal and human to struggle.

So let's remember that it's okay to not always be okay. Instead of shaming ourselves or others for feeling negative emotions, let's work towards creating a culture of empathy and understanding. Let's give ourselves permission to feel the full range of human emotions, and recognize that our setbacks and struggles are just as much a part of our growth as our successes.