What is positive psychology?

Positive psychology is the science behind positive wellbeing and flourishing. How as humans can we grow after difficult events? What can be expanded on in human nature to support our development?

Good vibes only! Think positive! Stay strong! Maybe you’ve heard some of these popular slogans and wondered whether staying positive 100% of the time is healthy?

Martin Seligman introduced 5 pillars of positive psychology known as PERMA. This is a useful way of guiding our behaviour and approach to life with a scientifically-informed understanding of happiness.

P = Positive Emotions

Martin Seligman found through research that having a ratio of 2:1 of positive emotions to negative is optimal for a state of wellbeing. This is not about ignoring negative emotions but about prioritising positive emotions such as optimism.

E= Engagement

Otherwise known as the ‘flow state’; this state we can access when we are particularly skilled in something that is also challenging, for example sport or teaching. This promotes the ‘reward’ hormones in our brain.

R = Relationships

Having positive relationships and connections with others is really important for our wellbeing. We are neurologically built to belong to a group and this helps us to feel safe.

M = Meaning

Understanding what we want to leave as our legacy and what our sense of purpose is is a key ingredient of happiness and fulfillment. Whether you want to make an impact with your work or you feel your purpose is parenthood, this supports us to feel satisfied and aligned with our values in life.

A = Accomplishments

When we are working towards a goal or we achieve something then this produces either serotonin or dopamine/endorphins in our brain. Having a sense of what we are working towards is incredibly rewarding.