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The Broaden-and-Build Theory suggests that positive emotions broaden individuals' momentary thought-action repertoires, which in turn helps to build their enduring personal resources, ranging from physical and intellectual resources to social and psychological resources.

Positive emotions expand an individual's attention and cognition, prompting them to draw from a wider array of thoughts and actions than they would in a neutral or negative emotional state.

Over time, the expanded cognitive states induced by positive emotions lead to the development of valuable skills and resources, such as better physical health, coping strategies, and social connections.

While negative emotions often prompt a narrow, immediate survival-oriented response (fight-or-flight), positive emotions contribute to more expansive, long-term strategies beneficial for personal growth and resource accumulation.

The Broaden-and-Build Theory posits that the accumulated resources from experiencing positive emotions can enhance an individual's resilience to adversity and ability to thrive during challenging times.

Knowing the benefits of positive emotions can inform the design of interventions aimed at increasing well-being, such as practicing gratitude, engaging in acts of kindness, and fostering positive relationships.