Contents Notes |
The theory of the dipper and the bucket -- Negativity kills -- Positivity, negativity, and productivity -- Every moment matters -- Tom's story: an overflowing bucket -- Making it personal -- Five strategies for increasing positive emotions. In an inspirational handbook, the discoveries of Donald O. Clifton, the grandfather of positive psychology, show how the briefest interactions affect people's relationships, productivity, health, and longevity. When we're negative toward others, we use a dipper to remove from their buckets and diminish their positive outlook. When we treat others in a positive manner, we fill not only their buckets but ours as well. The authors illustrate how this principle works in the areas of business and management, marriage and other personal relationships and in parenting through studies covering a 40-year span, many in association with the Gallup Poll. While acknowledging that most lives have their share of misfortune, the authors also make clear that how misfortune affects individuals depends largely on their level of positive energy and confidence. The authors also underscore that our human interactions provide most of the joys or disappointments we receive from life. The book comes with a unique access code to www.bucketbook.com, which offers a positive impact assessment and drop-shaped note cards that can be used to give praise and recognition to others. |