Positivity Resistance
I realized recently that i am triggered by positivity. When I encounter posts here that are VERRY positive I get a physical reaction in my chest. A very heavy feeling that is also somewhat sickening. This goes for the post something nice about other members here requests too. I like several people here but I can't even contemplate doing it since the triggering happens way before my mind can even attempt to think of something nice to say.
Why is this? I don't know, my system is telling me that being nice is dangerous. I also feel like an outsider when this happens. Honestly that is no big thing as I always feel like an outsider.
@Gettingbettertoday
Dear Getting Better Today,
Yes, positivity can be "toxic" or "weaponized," in that "This is how you're supposed to feel," which denies maybe underlying feelings of sadness or distress. I just did a discussion on this in, of all places, the Positivity Room, on how positivity can be "weaponized" and really serve to "shut down" some of us who are doing the work of learning to face maybe some difficult things about ourselves, or are dealing with some really hard issues. I actually referenced an article from Very Well Mind that discusses this concept. I found several of the statements in this article to be quite validating and I hope you might like this article, and also people in our community might consider thinking about allowing us a choice what to engage with, whether it's deeper exploration of our emotions or situations, and maybe just "sitting with" each other at times, or whether it truly is work on becoming more joyous. Here's the link to the article in case you're interested. Also, I would try to invite you if I were to lead another discussion on "Toxic Positivity" or "Weaponized Gratitude." When I did the discussions the last time there were a lot of deep thoughts shared and it was quite a good discussion from my perspective.
https://www.verywellmind.com/what-is-toxic-positivity-5093958
As far as strategies to avoid excessive positivity, I just skip over the posts I don't want to engage with, and a hearty dose of the news cycle is enough to bring anyone down to a good level of despair.
I added the image of the tree growing by itself in the middle of a calm lake, because you said you felt like you were all alone. And yet, the Tree is growing beautifully somehow.
Love and Courage, Rose
@Gettingbettertoday it's ok sweetie, I have double the amount of positiveness, so I'll be positive for the both of us ❤ hugs you tightly ❤
