The Power of Positivity: How One Person Can Spark Change

By Kathy LaMee, co-owner, CK Digital Learning Solutions

Every morning I wake up, before the coffee is done brewing, I wonder if it’s safe to open my NYT app and see what is going on in the world. Living in the U.S., it’s become normal (for a lot of us) to feel overwhelmed by negativity. From political divisions and economic uncertainty to social tensions and media-driven fear, the weight of the world can feel crushing. Many people feel hopeless–I know I do at times–wondering if individual actions can make any difference.

But, maybe there is some hope. 🙏🏻

I decided to see if there was any real science behind all of the catchy phrases we hear. Phrases such as, “Positivity is contagious—spread it wherever you go” or “One small act can create a ripple that changes everything.” 

The good news is, yes, science tells us something powerful: positivity is contagious, and even small acts of kindness and optimism can create a ripple effect that transforms communities, workplaces, and even society as a whole.

The Science Behind the Power of Positivity

While cynicism and division seem to dominate public discourse, research suggests that spreading positivity isn’t just an idealistic notion—it’s grounded in real psychological and neurological science. Here’s how:

Emotional Contagion: Your Mood Affects Others

Have you ever noticed how being around a cheerful person lifts your mood, while a negative person drains your energy? That’s emotional contagion in action. A study published in Psychological Science found that emotions—whether positive or negative—are highly contagious. When someone expresses joy, gratitude, or kindness, it unconsciously influences those around them, making it more likely that they will pass on those same positive emotions.

The Broaden-and-Build Theory: Positivity Creates Opportunity

Dr. Barbara Fredrickson’s Broaden-and-Build Theory of Positive Emotions found that experiencing positive emotions expands our ability to think creatively, solve problems, and connect with others. In contrast, negative emotions narrow our thinking, making us more fearful and reactive.

By choosing positivity, we not only improve our own outlook, but we also create an environment where others feel more open, resilient, and empowered to tackle challenges.

Mirror Neurons: The Science of Social Influence

Neuroscientific research has discovered that humans have mirror neurons—cells in our brain that cause us to mimic behaviors we observe in others. 

A study in The Journal of Neuroscience demonstrated how witnessing kindness activates these neurons, inspiring people to replicate positive behaviors. This means that a single act of kindness, encouragement, or gratitude can set off a chain reaction, influencing dozens—if not hundreds—of people over time.

The Helper’s High: Kindness is Self-Reinforcing

Acts of kindness don’t just benefit others—they also make the giver feel better. Research from Harvard and the University of British Columbia found that people who spent money on others reported greater happiness than those who spent money on themselves. 

Performing acts of kindness triggers the release of dopamine, serotonin, and oxytocin—the brain’s feel-good chemicals—which reinforce a cycle of positive behavior. 🥰

Workplace & Community Benefits: A Culture Shift is Possible

Beyond individual well-being, positivity has a measurable impact on organizations and communities. A Gallup study found that employees who work in positive environments are 21% more productive and experience lower stress levels. 

When one leader or team member models positivity, it can shift the workplace culture, leading to higher engagement, collaboration, and overall satisfaction.

Applying The Science

In a time where division and negativity are amplified through social media, news cycles, and political discourse, it’s tempting to believe that one person’s actions don’t matter. But these studies show that small, intentional choices—offering encouragement instead of criticism, focusing on solutions instead of complaints, practicing kindness instead of hostility—can have an exponential impact.

Just imagine what could happen if more people chose to model positivity in their daily interactions! 

👩🏻‍💻If leaders in organizations emphasized optimism and resilience, workplaces would become more productive and less toxic. 

👩🏻‍🤝‍👩🏽If communities focused on acts of kindness, social cohesion could improve. 

🗣️💕If more people countered online negativity with uplifting and constructive dialogue, the entire digital landscape could shift.

What You Can Do Today

We won’t be able to make big changes in one day, but we can make small changes that might grow bigger. Here’s how you can start making a difference right now.

• Practice small acts of kindness. Compliment a stranger, send a grateful email, or help a neighbor.

• Be mindful of your energy. Notice how your mood affects those around you and strive to bring light into conversations.

• Choose solutions over complaints. Instead of dwelling on problems, focus on how to improve situations.

• Limit exposure to negativity. Reduce doom-scrolling and consume more content that inspires action rather than despair.

• Encourage others. Uplift your coworkers, friends, and family with genuine support and positive reinforcement.

One Person Can Make a Difference

While it may seem like the problems of the world are too big for one person to change, science proves that positivity is powerful. The energy you put into the world doesn’t stop with you—it moves forward, influencing countless others in ways you may never fully see.

Hope isn’t naive; it’s a catalyst for transformation. And the best part? It starts with you.

So, in a world where negativity spreads easily, choose to be the person who spreads something different. Because one small spark of positivity has the power to ignite real change. ✨