Broaden and build theory, simply put, is positive emotions leading to more positive emotions. When we experience positive emotions like joy, gratitude and love, our brains expand the horizons of our mind. We experience varied and novel thoughts and actions which encourages us to explore the world.

 

​However, negative emotions serve the opposite function of positive emotions. Negative emotions tend to cause restricted, short term survival oriented behaviour. When we experience negative emotions like anxiety, frustration, or anger, the mind constricts and focuses in on the imposing threat, thus limiting one’s ability to be open to new ideas and build resources and relationships. 

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Positive emotions build resources for our physical, psychological and social needs. The resources we build like resilience, optimism and social bonding can be drawn upon in later moments, in different emotional states, to maintain our well-being.

 

Positive emotions actually help to override negative emotions. It has been shown that individuals who report higher level of positive emotions show more constructive and flexible coping, more abstract and long-term thinking, and greater emotional distance following stressful negative events.