Perhaps we focus on the negatives because it’s a survival mechanism given to us through evolution, too. If you focus on the predator, not the prey, you’re going to be able to avoid getting killed. In our daily lives, this means avoiding and averting anything that can cause us or our loved ones harm, physically or emotionally. Focusing on the negatives is adaptive, which makes negativity a lot more appealing to us.

I’ve never really thought about it that way so thanks for the article, Erik!