Wish well to a stranger – wellbeing through everyday interactions

Exercise: Wishing well to a stranger

When walking in the city, on campus, or anywhere among other people, focus on observing the emotional state of the people passing by. When you notice someone feeling down, irritated, or angry, you can silently wish them strength, better wellbeing, or good luck in their future. The aim is not to magically change the passerby's emotions but to notice what it feels like in your own body when you wish them well. Conversely, if you see someone or several people who are happy, joyful, laughing, or otherwise in a good mood, you can try to feel happy for them and wish that their good mood continues or even improves. In short:

1. Observe the emotional state of those around you.
2. Silently wish them well.
3. Notice how this feels in your own body.

This exercise on its own is valuable as a practice of empathetic presence. Furthermore, the only additional requirement for positivity resonance is eye contact with the other person, allowing your already present and caring attitude to facilitate a shared micro-moment of love if the other person responds similarly.

More information and other exercises

The opportunities for positivity resonance can be further increased by practicing mindfulness in general or for example through Metta meditation. Additionally, practicing self-compassion, appreciative questions, active listening, sympathetic joy, and creating a psychologically safe space can increase the likelihood and depth of positive resonance. 

For more information about micro-moments of love and how to practice them you can read Barbara Fredrickson’s (2013) book "Love 2.0: How Our Supreme Emotion Affects Everything We Feel, Think, Do, and Become."  Hudson Street Press.