In a time of deep political division, constant social media comparison, and general burnout, one of the most radical acts we can engage in is simple: feeling happiness for someone else. This concept, known as freudenfreude, is the joy derived from another person’s success, rather than resentment, envy, or detachment. And yet, in today’s Utah, this kind of joy seems to be in short supply.
Recent studies suggest that freudenfreude is not just a feel-good concept but a psychological necessity. Research published in The Journal of Positive Psychology found that those who actively practice celebrating others’ wins experience higher levels of personal well-being and social connection. When we feel happy for someone else’s accomplishments, our brain releases dopamine, reinforcing positive social bonds. In contrast, our culture seems to be more deeply entrenched in schadenfreude, which is taking pleasure in others’ misfortunes, especially when it comes to politics.
It’s no secret that American politics has become a zero-sum game, where the downfall of an opposing party or individual is often celebrated more than the success of one’s own side. This isn’t just toxic; it’s exhausting. A Pew Research study found that many Americans across the political spectrum report feeling stressed, fatigued, and disillusioned by the constant cycle of negativity. Rather than being motivated by hope and optimism, many are driven by outrage and disdain, which takes a toll on our collective mental health.
Imagine a different way of engaging. What if, instead of reflexively dismissing a political opponent’s achievement, we acknowledged its positive impact? What if we shifted from doom scrolling through news designed to enrage us to actively seeking out stories of progress, innovation and resilience?
Freudenfreude is not about blind positivity or ignoring real systemic issues. It’s about breaking the cycle of animosity and fostering a culture of shared joy. This shift could be small at first. Maybe you compliment a colleague’s promotion rather than feeling threatened by it? How about celebrating a local community leader’s success regardless of their political affiliation? Freudenfreude could be as simple as taking a moment to appreciate a friend’s good news without comparing it to our own lives.
America is exhausted, but the cure isn’t more division. The cure is connection. And one of the easiest ways to start is by embracing freudenfreude, not just as an abstract ideal, but as a daily practice. If we can learn to take joy in each other’s victories, we might just find a little more peace in our own lives too.
Tom Sherlock, Logan
