The other day, after four intense days of work, I found myself sitting in my car, mentally preparing for a full day with the Timaru District Council.
I was tired, so incredibly tired. But I have a process I go through to lift myself to bring full energy and motivation.
A few slow, deep diaphragmatic breaths, a shift in mindset by imagining the feeling of engaging with the audience, and a reminder to always bring my best for every event.
As I stepped out of the vehicle, someone spotted me across the car park. He walked over, beaming.
I remembered him from my last visit; he was always smiling. Radiating boundless energy.
We chatted, and I asked him, “Where does all that energy come from? You are always so happy?”
He simply said, “There’s always something to be happy about if you look for it.” As simple as that!
Our conversation lifted my energy levels more than any motivational technique ever could.
What struck me during both workshops that day was how my own energy was now boundless.
I felt genuinely happy and at times, even moved to tears when recounting heartwarming anecdotes.
It made me wonder: What’s happening in our brains when we experience these moments?
When we are happy, are we more emotional, more energised, more positive.
Here’s what neuroscience tells us:
🧠 Emotions are processed in the limbic system. While the amygdala is often associated with fear and threat, it also lights up with positive emotions such as joy, gratitude, and connection.
🧠 Positive emotions trigger the release of neurotransmitters like dopamine and oxytocin. These chemicals don’t just make us feel good – they enhance our focus, creativity and even our immune system.
🧠 When we experience genuine happiness, our brains become more sensitive to all emotions. The amygdala also heightens our awareness of joy, empathy, and can bring tears to our eyes from that joy.
🧠 Connection is contagious. When someone shares their positive energy, our mirror neurons fire, allowing us to feel and catch their mood. One person’s smile can literally change the chemistry of another’s brain.
Yes, without a doubt, when we choose to look for the good, we’re not only changing our mindset, but we are also rewiring our brains.
We are boosting our energy and opening ourselves up to deeper, more meaningful experiences.
To the person who reminded me that “there’s always something to be happy about”, thank you.
You didn’t just lift my spirits, you reminded me of the incredible power we all have to change someone’s day - and potentially their brain, all with a single moment of kindness.
Let’s talk!
How To Lift Your Mood!