Positivity Bias

IN THE REBBE’S OFT-REPEATED words—paraphrasing the Mishnah408—”hamaaseh hu ha’ikar,” which means that the essential thing is the deed, not abstract study. Otherwise, teachings and words, no matter how beautiful, wise, or aesthetic, are devarim beteilim “empty expressions” and their

should always make the most out of exactly where we are, no matter how fleeting that moment may be. As the following chapter illustrates, throughout the Rebbe’s life he embodied the advice he would give to others and manifested the principle of Positivity even in the most harrowing of situations.

don’t enjoy for a few years, perhaps, but there will come a time when it starts to build resentment. We are programmed to pursue contentment;

and even if it seems minimal. This is how you inspire change.”

Intensifying positive activities after a loss helps foster a heightened sense of purpose and can be an effective means of achieving comfort.

after reciting the morning blessings428 and before reciting the Shema prayer when retiring at night,429 to write down a minimum of five things that you currently have in your life that you are grateful for. Think about each for a moment, relish it. Now say “Thank You” to G-d for each one of these blessings. The next time you feel yourself starting

But as Chasidic thought teaches, emotions are like children. Just as a healthy parent would not insult their child, so too, we shouldn’t insult our inner selves. Whatever you wouldn’t say to someone else in decent company, don’t say to yourself.

“If, however, you want to be able to observe the actual change you inspire in your audiences,” the Rebbe continued, “I suggest that you not speak in abstract terms. Teach your audiences a practical Jewish tradition, and leave them with an action point, even if it’s only one thing,

Bias: To believe in G-d’s ultimate goodness, to know that blessings await us beneath the surface of our experience, no matter how bleak, to actively seek those blessings out, and to spread their light to the world beyond.