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Updated on:

May 9, 2015

Learn from psychology professor Barbara Fredrickson what positive emotions are and how positivity can open our minds and allow us to look past racial and cultural differences. This video discusses how positive emotions broaden our awareness of the world, allowing us to become more in tune with the needs of others.

Barbara Fredrickson, PhD is a Kenan Distinguished Professor of Psychology at the University of North Carolina in Chapel Hill. She is one of the most highly cited scholars in Psychology and is most known for her “broaden-and-build theory of positive emotions”. She has an online course on Coursera on Positive Psychology, which expands on her statements on the idea that positive emotions can open your mind, and that is available for free.

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About the author 

Sean Fargo is a mindfulness teacher and founder of Mindfulness Exercises, a global platform offering evidence‑based resources and teacher certification. A former Buddhist monk in the Thai Theravada tradition, he bridges contemplative wisdom with modern psychology to make mindfulness practical at work and in life. Sean has taught alongside Jack Kornfield and supported leaders at organizations such as Reddit, PG&E, and DocuSign. Through online trainings, guided meditations, and mentorship, he has helped thousands of educators, clinicians, and coaches bring mindfulness to diverse communities. Sean’s mission is simple and ambitious: expand access to authentic, science‑informed practice while cultivating compassion, clarity, and resilience. Today, Mindfulness Exercises serves millions with free and premium tools, empowering individuals and teams to lead with presence and purpose.

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