If emotions are contagious, so are positive social connections.

Researchers found that social relationships, social support, and social acceptance helped develop positive self-esteem throughout people's lives. A positive feedback loop accumulates over time.

Research shows that people typically use language to inject a positivity bias. They also found that people generally use more happy words than sad words.

We should not ignore life's difficulties or even view every rain cloud as a cotton-candy-laced fantasy. Without realism, positivity can become dangerous to our well-being.

One study found that participants who set realistic expectations had higher well-being than those who set unrealistic expectations based on overly positive attitudes. Being realistic about your future can bring a sense of well-being.