As we grow, we become prone to negativity bias. This means we register and process negative experiences more than positive outcomes. This pattern is rooted in human evolution, as our earliest encounters as a species required it for survival. However, today’s world rarely calls for the hypervigilance that our ancestors needed.

With that knowledge, I have been making attempts to counteract that tendency. It’s easy to get lost in the struggle. It offers a deceptive sense of control, leading your mind to erroneously conclude that dwelling on the negative could avert its repetition. Life doesn’t work that way. We need both good and hard experiences for growth. Neither is permanent, but they share equal value.

One of my favorite ways to neutralize the inclination toward negativity is the practice of gratitude. To accomplish this, you might use lists, engage in quiet contemplation, or confide in a trusted friend. Sometimes this is harder than it looks, especially if you’re going through a tough season. Intentionality helps weed out prejudice and calms my anxiety.

Here are some highlights from my observations. These are little instances that earned a pause in my brain and a smile on my face. They collectively reminded me that living is beautiful when you search for the reasons. I’ve noticed that noting these times has genuinely shifted my perspective. Instead of focusing only on what went wrong, I find my mood lightens, and my daily outlook feels more hopeful. It makes mindfulness about the positive things feel worthwhile, not just as an idea but as something that really changes how I see circumstances.

Living and commuting in New York City is a recipe for many uncomfortable interactions with people. But this specific commute challenged the status quo. It was a rainy day, so the train seat was wet, and I opted to stand while I rode home. But a kind gentleman saw how tired I was, took a napkin from his bag, and wiped the surface for me. The small act of kindness changed what could have been an unpleasant ride back into a good moment. It made my night.

Community can be hard to find in our modern times. Typically, I’ve experienced more people being divided in thought than not. However, living during the Knicks’ playoff run challenged that in a big way. Bars and restaurants were packed out with excited fans hoping for the same win together. There wasn’t an empty table in Dave & Busters when we went each night. Every single person cheered from their seat at some point as we all watched the giant screens. The game had come to life all over the city. You didn’t need a ticket to attend because the energy was so palpable in every part of New York. A shared love for one team overshadowed the usual trends. It’s been my favorite part of the 2026 summer.

Conversations with my brother are sometimes few and far between. We both lead busy lives in different parts of the US, so when we have the occasion to sit down and chat, it’s a blessing. Whether it’s a quick text message, a funny meme on Instagram, or an hour-long Facetime, I value every interaction because it keeps us connected. Having moments to catch up on life and spend time together, including through technology, reminds me that relationships can be maintained and flourish even when you are hours away from your people.

The opportunity for a pause is a needed one. Being able to take stock of how good things are in my world has helped me move through the sad times. While this practice isn’t perfect, I’ve seen positive results in all my attempts.

Editor: Lucy Cafiero