The effective leader is additionally humane when he or she handles intergroup relations

So a chilly, negative mood activates a battle-stations mode of thinking: the order of the day is to focus on what is wrong and then eliminate it. A positive mood, in contrast, buoys people into a way of thinking that is creative, tolerant, constructive, generous, undefensive and lateral.

now turn to the routes—the strengths of character—by which we achieve the virtues.

During the next five adverse events you face in your daily life, listen closely for your beliefs, observe the consequences, and dispute your beliefs vigorously. Then observe the energy that occurs as you succeed in dealing with the negative beliefs.

How you feel about the past—contentment or pride, versus bitterness or shame—depends entirely on your memories. There is no other source.

Memory-building. Take mental photographs or even a physical souvenir of

Positive emotion broadens and builds the intellectual, social, and physical resources that your children draw upon later in life. Augmenting positive emotions in your children can start an upward spiral of positive emotion. The positive traits that your child displays are just as real and authentic as his or her negative traits.

Raising children, I knew now, was far more than just fixing what was wrong with them. It was about identifying and amplifying their strengths and virtues, and helping them find the niche where they can live these positive traits to the fullest.

Fear is a signal that danger is lurking, sadness is a signal that loss is impending, and anger signals someone trespassing against us. In evolution, danger, loss, and trespass