Expressing More Joy: Delight in Other People's Success
In the world of emotions, a lesser-known yet profound concept called Confelicity has been gaining traction. This term, derived from Latin, refers to the experience of shared happiness [1]. Unlike its counterpart, Schadenfreude—a German term meaning secret pleasure derived from others' misfortune or irritation at their success—Confelicity lifts one up, bringing people closer together through mutual joy [2].
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Confelicity occurs when one is genuinely happy for someone else's good fortune, promotion, engagement, or lucky break. It's more than just feeling happy for them; it's about appreciating the reasons behind their joy, which enhances empathetic engagement and strengthens bonds [2]. Research indicates that actively sharing in another person’s happiness, especially when expressed outwardly, helps to solidify and improve relationships [2].
This can be done by reflecting on others’ successes, genuinely rejoicing with them, and communicating that happiness through affirmations like "I'm so happy for you" or "Well done." Such expressions of Confelicy help build trust, emotional intimacy, and reciprocity in relationships [2].
Confelicity shares many similarities with positive empathy, where one delights both in the happiness itself and understands the causes behind it. This dual aspect increases feelings of connectedness and emotional well-being in both parties [2]. Practicing Confelicity even rewires the brain toward greater joy, suggesting a neurological basis for its benefits [2].
Sharing in someone's joy is referred to as positive empathy or sympathetic joy. A study on sympathetic joy at Berkeley has been conducted, further emphasizing the importance of this emotion in strengthening relationships, especially when expressed out loud [3].
Interestingly, Confelicity can also be fostered in other contexts. For example, watching a competition and appreciating the skill, effort, and dedication of all participants, regardless of the outcome, can foster positive empathy [3].
For those interested in learning more about Confelicity and its impact on the brain, a short video discussing these topics can be found on the author's YouTube channel [4]. Another study on positive empathy in relationships can be found in Sage Journals [5].
In summary, Confelicity:
- Enhances emotional well-being by increasing feelings of joy and reducing negative emotions through shared positive experiences. - Strengthens relationships by building empathy, trust, and reciprocity. - Encourages expressions of support and love, which sustain deeper interpersonal connections. - Has a neurological impact, potentially rewiring the brain for greater happiness through the practice of shared happiness [2].
Engaging in Confelicity is a powerful way to nurture both individual happiness and the quality of social bonds.
Engaging in Confelicity, or the shared happiness experienced when genuinely rejoicing in someone else's good fortune, can significantly strengthen interpersonal relationships owing to the fostering of empathy, trust, and reciprocity [2]. Furthermore, this practice encourages expressions of support and love, deepening emotional connections and contributing to personal growth within relationships [2].
