Some Positive Emotions
Introduction
There is a set of 10 core positive emotions that are not just “feel-good” states; they each broaden thinking in distinct and useful ways.
The 10 Core Positive Emotions
1. Joy
Creates the urge to play, explore and be creative
Broadens thinking toward possibilities and spontaneity
2. Gratitude
Encourages appreciation and relationship-building
Strengthens social bonds and trust
3. Serenity (Contentment)
Promotes reflection and integration of experiences
Helps people make sense of change
4. Interest
Drives curiosity, learning and exploration
Critical for innovation and adaptation
5. Hope
Sustains effort during uncertainty
Focuses attention on future possibilities and pathways
6. Pride
Reinforces achievement and competence
Builds confidence and motivation
7. Amusement
Encourages playful thinking and social bonding
Reduces tension and stress
8. Inspiration
Creates the urge to grow, improve and aspire
Often triggered by role models or meaningful vision
9. Awe
Expands perspective beyond oneself
Encourages big-picture thinking and humility
10. Love
Integrates many of the above emotions in relationships
Builds deep, enduring social resources.
Summary
Each of these emotions broadens thinking in a different way:
| Emotion | Broadening Effect |
|---|---|
| 1. Joy | Play and creativity |
| 2. Interest | Exploration and learning |
| 3. Hope | Future-focused thinking |
| 4. Gratitude | Relationship strengthening |
| 5. Pride | Confidence and achievement |
| 6. Serenity | Reflection and integration |
| 7. Amusement | Flexibility and bonding |
| 8.Inspiration | Growth and aspiration |
| 9. Awe | Perspective expansion |
| 10. Love | Deep connection and trust |
This is important in change management
In a change context, these emotions can be intentionally activated:
Hope + Inspiration to drive buy-in to the vision
Interest + Curiosity to enable innovation
Gratitude + Love to build trust and collaboration
Pride + Joy to sustain momentum
Serenity + Awe to help people process and reframe change
NB Strategic and successful change leaders do not just manage tasks, they design emotional experiences that activate these 10 emotions, thereby broadening thinking and building long-term organisational capability.
(main source: Barbara Fredrickson, 2001)