Why It Works

Studies have shown that the human brain is more responsive to pleasant words than unpleasant words. ^[A-59] Focusing on the positive words in this game like "optimism" and "joy" is a form of positive mood induction. According to Professor Barbara Fredrickson, even temporary positive emotions like joy or interest can result in a "broadening" of our thoughts and actions, and help regulate our negative emotions. ^[H-39] Most importantly, once you're in this improved cognitive state, you're more likely to do things with long-term impact, like solve problems or strengthen your relationships. ^[H-34] So it may seem frivolous to create a transient good mood, but even a temporary lift in your emotions can have lasting benefits.

In eye-tracking studies, participants who were induced into a positive mood were also shown to seek out more positive emotions in order to preserve their upbeat mood and maintain their "upward spiral" of emotions, broadening their attention to neutral or happy stimuli and paying more attention to positive things in their environment. ^[H-92]

To succeed at this game, you'll need to direct your attention to (and click on) the positive words that appear on the balloons, while ignoring the negative words. Apply these skills to the real world: Can you look for the positive amid the negative thoughts and events in the world around you?

Why Meaningful Work Makes All the Difference—and How to Find It