Example: two people received $10,000. The poor person will be happy, while the billionaire will be disappointed. The delta, the difference, is what matters.
The human experience is shaped by a complex array of psychological and social factors, including our expectations, past experiences, and cultural norms. One crucial factor that impacts our emotional states is the concept of “delta,” or the difference between our current state and our previous state.
Psychological research has demonstrated that people tend to experience greater satisfaction when there is a positive delta between their current state and their previous state. For instance, if an individual is accustomed to a certain level of income, receiving a raise or promotion that increases their income level will result in a positive delta and lead to feelings of satisfaction and happiness.
Conversely, individuals tend to experience negative emotions when there is a negative delta, or a decrease in their current state compared to their previous state. For example, if someone becomes accustomed to a certain standard of living, experiencing a decline in that standard, such as losing a job, can lead to negative emotions such as anxiety, depression, and despair.
This phenomenon is not unique to humans, and research has shown that some animals also experience changes in emotional states based on delta. For instance, animals kept in captivity may exhibit negative emotions when exposed to environments that differ significantly from their previous state.
It is important to note that delta is not an absolute factor or number that yields happiness or sorrow. Rather, it is the difference between two experiences in time or current to expected that shapes our emotional response. This can vary widely between individuals, depending on their past experiences, personal goals, and cultural values.
Overall, the concept of delta is a crucial factor in shaping human emotions and behaviors. By understanding how delta impacts our emotional states, individuals can develop strategies to manage their emotional well-being and work to promote positive delta in their lives. This includes cultivating gratitude, setting realistic expectations, and actively seeking out positive experiences that can boost our emotional state.