Embrace Positivity: How Words Can Shape a Happier New Year

As 2025 draws to a close, linguist and author Susie Dent encourages individuals to enhance their well-being by embracing the power of positive language. In her recent reflections, she highlights how the words we choose can significantly impact our happiness and health, urging readers to adopt a more optimistic vocabulary for the upcoming year.

The past year has been characterized by a plethora of negative terms, including “ragebait,” “glazing,” and “gerrymandering.” Such language reflects broader societal frustrations and often leads to a pessimistic outlook. Dent suggests that this linguistic trend prompts many to retreat from the world, coining the term “latibulate,” which means to find a corner and hide. Yet, studies show that positive words can elevate mood and reduce stress by boosting feel-good hormones.

Shifting Language for a Brighter Future

Historically, language has been more inclined to express sorrow than joy. For every term of happiness, countless phrases denote negativity. Compliments are scarce, while insults are plentiful. For instance, Dent notes the presence of “stiffrump,” an 18th-century term for a grumpy person, and “catch-fart,” which describes a sycophant. Despite this, there are still treasures of positivity hidden in language.

Instead of using tired phrases like “the cat’s meow,” Dent encourages individuals to explore creative alternatives such as “the kipper’s knickers” or “the gnat’s elbow.” These playful expressions not only add flair to conversations but also serve as a reminder to not take life too seriously. By reframing our frustrations with kinder labels, we can diminish irritations and promote a more positive atmosphere.

Dent emphasizes that even in politics, language can shift perceptions. Terms like “quockerwodgers,” which describe puppet leaders, and “snollygosters,” for self-serving politicians, could be replaced with more uplifting terms. She advocates for a government led by the “best citizens,” known as “aristocracy,” as opposed to the “kakistocracy” of the worst. Aiming for “eunomy” — a state of good governance — could lead to a more hopeful political landscape.

The Power of Positive Vocabulary

Research supports the idea that adopting positive language can alter our mindset. Dent likens this shift to exercising the muscles of laughter. When we smile, even in difficult times, our brains release dopamine and endorphins, promoting feelings of happiness. A rich vocabulary offers opportunities for joy, with playful terms like “bags of mystery” for sausages or “bumbershoots” for umbrellas providing comic relief.

Additionally, Dent highlights the importance of slowing down in our fast-paced world. She references the German term “Eilkrankheit,” or “hurry sickness,” and encourages readers to embrace the Japanese practice of “shinrin-yoku,” meaning “forest bathing.” This approach encourages individuals to immerse themselves in nature, finding calm amidst chaos.

As 2026 approaches, Dent calls for a collective effort to seek positivity. She believes that through conscious choices in language, we can foster a renewed sense of hope. The term “resipiscence,” which denotes a return to one’s senses, encapsulates this goal. Additionally, she introduces “eucatastrophes,” a term coined by J.R.R. Tolkien that signifies unexpected happy endings, as a guiding principle for the year ahead.

In closing, Dent’s message is clear: by choosing uplifting words and reframing our thoughts, we can transform our outlook on life. As we step into the new year, let us commit to spreading positivity and cultivating a more joyful existence. Happy New Year to all, and may positivity abound.