Hugh: Research Shows You’re Better at Certain Things When You’re in a Bad Mood

Being grumpy can actually make you a better proofreader, a University of Arizona study suggests.

When we’re in a bad mood, we can identify written inconsistencies faster than when we’re in a happy mood, the research suggests.

“We show that when people are in a negative mood, they are more careful and analytical. They scrutinize what’s actually stated in a text,” Professor Vicky Lai said.

Participants watched either a sad movie or a funny TV show, and then asked them to analyze a story with some critical errors, like suggesting it’s harder to drive at night with lights on. Those who recently watched sad content were more critical.

Next time you’re in a bad mood, proofread those emails and papers!