Why the bad stuff sticks

Consider these sets of news reports Set one: A sportsperson is alleged to be involved in match-fixing. It can be seen that the first articles in each set are all negative news, while the second ones belong to the category of positive news. News of death, disease, man-made disasters, natural calamities, accidents, crimes, scandals, socio-economic slump, political cataclysm and war – all these find more readers, and are subjects of more debates and discussions than news of people winning recognition and acclaim, of successful scientific research, a surging economy or introduction of new infrastructure. Asked about the reason behind this negative tilt of the human mind, criminal psychology expert Anuja Kapur says, “Right from childhood, whether at home or at school, we grow up hearing ‘No’ from parents, grandparents, teachers, elders, and so on. That is why, when depressed, we cannot lift our mood by thinking positive thoughts; but on the other hand, negative feelings of stress and anxiety can disrupt our happy mood.” How to overcome or deal with negative emotions and thoughts Follow moral teachings and training while reminding of the consequences of letting negativity dominate the mind Train the mind through meditation to reduce negativity and pessimism Try to find positivity and believe that whatever happens is for the good Before being judgmental of others, first introspect Before reacting hastly, pause and reflect if it’s worth your time and energy Consider people who are less privileged than you and list out things for which you should be grateful Ask yourself if in reality the situation is negative or you are making it worse by over-thinking Learn, love and laugh, rather than spend life in hatred and sadness