Positivity – aiming and training for it

Richard Bradshaw (@FriendlyTester) Tweeted:
Testers are so quick to negatively critique without a providing a single hint of positivity. 

This felt so close to my heart and also knowing Richard personally I believe he also sees this as a sad part of the software tester role. I also believe positivity can be evolved, and my recent life events make me believe strongly in this.

Positivity is not just a trait some people are born with—it’s a skill that, like any other, can be built and strengthened over time. The idea that “positivity can be trained” is both empowering and supported by a growing body of scientific research into neuroplasticity and mental health. Just as our bodies can be trained to be stronger and more flexible, our minds can be conditioned to adopt a more positive outlook, even in challenging circumstances.

Why train positivity? Our brains are naturally wired to notice and dwell on negative experiences as a survival mechanism. This negativity bias once kept our ancestors alert to dangers, but today, it can lead to chronic stress, anxiety, and even depression. Consciously training ourselves to adopt a positive perspective can help counter this natural bias, leading to better mental and physical health, more resilience to setbacks, improved relationships, and even greater professional success.

Training positivity is not about denying challenges, but about building the mental resilience to move through life with a lighter, more hopeful heart. With regular practice, the neural pathways associated with positive thinking become stronger—ultimately making it easier and more natural to see the good, bounce back from setbacks, and inspire others to do the same.

As the same time, a simplest cure is to simply use a template, with a “what did work” section.

Start small! Be consistent!