The Fine Line Between Toxic Positivity and Harmless Negativity

We always tell ourselves to stand up straight and put a smile on our faces, even in our darkest hour. It seems no one allows themselves to have a bad day anymore. A positive outlook on life at all times is becoming a new societal norm, as well as facing problems alone out of fear of “bothering” those you care deeply for. 

But what happens when this positivity turns toxic?

Toxic positivity is the act of avoiding, suppressing, and rejecting any negative experiences that come your way. This form of vanquishing the trials and tribulations of life sounds appealing, but in reality, it is one of the most harmful practices that can lead to a road of misfortune. 

Exuding positive energy is essential, but it can be exhausting, especially if you are not having a good day. With the rise of social media, we feel pressure to pretend nothing is wrong and share the joyous moments of our lives. 

Toxic positivity can also make people feel invalid or weak for having moments of weakness and sadness. It can create the feeling that having these emotions, such as sadness, anger, and frustration, is “wrong”. Bottling up emotions will only lead to being unable to control them in the long run.

Negative emotions are never enjoyable, but they are necessary roadblocks we must face to grow as individuals. I know it sounds unbelievable, but the anxiety you face is actually more important than you think. Without these negative emotions, no one could differentiate right from wrong, thus delaying growth as people. 

Mental health is a priority to many, but forcing positivity can actually lead to more stress, anger, and anxiety. A major misconception is that always faking a smile can magically disappear all the world’s problems. If you convince yourself enough, you will not be able to find the root of the problem. 

Obviously, the answer is not to be negative all the time because this, in turn, will also have a lasting impact on those around you.

There can be a happy medium between the two.

Allow yourself to feel all the feelings, both positive and negative. I’ve learned that the bad times are simply moments in life that make the good times all the more rewarding. Even if no one else understands the reasoning behind your emotions, let them make assumptions while you continue to allow yourself to face everything head-on.

The most beneficial thing we can do is be honest with ourselves and not let how we “should” feel get in the way of how we genuinely feel towards any situation.

Nothing good comes from toxic positivity. Keep that in mind next time you try to convince yourself and others that everything is okay when in reality the world feels like it is crumbling to pieces.

Strike Out,

Matty Wolfe

Boca Raton

Matty Wolfe is the Senior Editor for Strike Magazine Boca. This avid reality television consumer loves to escape the world as often as he can. You’ll find him outside often, working on his tan and playing mermaids in the ocean. He’s also a future Survivor contestant, even if the producers do not know it yet. You can reach him by email at mattheww0507@gmail.com