What ratio of positive/negative thinking works best?
In my opinon, its best to look at other people optimistically, and celebrate thier stenghts. At the same time, its good to be fully aware (or as aware as you can be by simple observation- no prodding/starring anything visible ect) of other peoples faults so that you can aviod bad advice/ aviod potentially bad situations involving that person. Also, you can resist bad mannerisms of theirs.
Generally, it seems better not to judge people since it makes them mad. Advice is also worthless becuase people will only change if they want to. Even if people are asking you to listen to their problems, it is much better to reach an understanding than give advice. Really, advice should only be given if a person asks for advice or recognizes they are in trouble and reaches out for help.
Personally, I am much harder on myself than on other people. I try to be as realistic as possible and analyze everything I do wrong and constantly try to improve. It helps a lot, but I'm not sure its the best route since it makes me kind of shy due to fear of others criticizing me since I am always criticizing myself.
In terms of the world at large, I currently have no definite views. Existentialist thought has some interguing aspects to it however.
What are your views on positive vs negative thinking?