According to the CDC, “often a crisis results in changes in the way the future is viewed.” It can lead to a new “sense of strength and empowerment,” a “renewed sense of community,” and “opportunities for growth and renewal.” Tapping into positive emotions like these—and appealing to people’s aspirations for themselves and their communities—can power up persuasion and motivation. To drive positive behaviors, public health messaging needs to speak to the heart and the head.

The Aspirational Communication Model provides a systematic, science-based approach to communicating with maximum motivating power. Drawing from motivational, cognitive, and social psychology, the model suggests that you achieve greater levels of interest and engagement when you connect with people on multiple levels.

Source: Emphasizing the Positive: the Aspirational Communication Model