I’ve been thinking a lot about the science of kindness—how simple, intentional acts can genuinely shift our mood, our mindset, and the way we connect with others. And among those small acts, smiling might be the most underestimated.

One of the best things we can do for our well-being is act kindly toward others. This generous spirit reduces stress and strengthens relationships—essential ingredients for a fulfilling life.

Have you ever “lost your cool”? Sent an email or text you later regretted? Snapped at a coworker, spouse, friend, or child?

If so—there’s a brain-based reason for that.

In those moments, you weren’t weak or flawed. You were reacting—not responding. And neuroscience explains why.

Laughter is one of the most powerful—and underused—ways to fight our brain’s natural negativity bias. Hardwired to scan for threats, our brains tend to hold onto negative experiences more than positive ones. But laughter disrupts that cycle. It creates joy, shifts perspective, and helps us return to a more balanced, resilient state.

I’ve written several times about the negativity bias that is hardwired into us as humans—and for good reason. This bias, a tendency to focus more on the negative than the positive, served us evolutionarily, helping us stay alert to threats. But in modern life, it can keep us stuck in cycles of anxiety, disconnection, and despair. It’s one of the biggest impediments to well-being, especially in times of stress.

Transitions can feel unsteady—like catching a wave and hoping you don’t fall off the board. But they also invite something powerful: the chance to awaken your growth mindset—that quiet inner belief that you can learn, adapt, and grow, even when the future feels uncertain.

As humans, we are biologically wired with a negativity bias — a natural tendency to focus more on threats than on positive experiences.

As I navigate a life transition, I’ve been reflecting deeply on purpose.

In our work and lives, challenges are guaranteed. But how we respond to them? That’s not always easy.

When we hit a setback—job loss, uncertainty, or major life changes—it’s easy to fall into self-criticism. We think that pushing ourselves harder or toughening up will get us through. But research tells a different story: the “drill sergeant” voice inside actually increases stress, impairs problem-solving, and makes it harder to move forward.

This past week has been challenging. Like so many others affected by a layoff, I’m navigating the uncertainty of job loss and the emotions that come with it. As an I/O Psychologist, I know that resilience isn’t just about pushing through—it’s about finding ways to ground ourselves, regulate stress, and move forward with clarity.