Positive Psychology and Helping
Happiness is a goal of positive psychology – should probably be for all of us too! And Positive Psychology describes several pathways—major dimensions of our lives – that get us closer to this goal. If we expand and build on each of these areas we can bring ourselves closer to that goal as each dimension plays a role in driving happiness.
- Creating more positive emotions in our lives as a means of building resiliency (a buffer or bounce-back power against everyday challenges). Positive emotions also reduce stress and allow us to be more curious, creative, and better able to problem solve.
- Maintaining a sense of meaning and purpose can act as a stabilizing force during times of change and transition. It can serve as an anchor to keep us balanced during life’s inevitable ups and downs.
- When we are surrounded by positive (loving and supportive) relationships, we are more trusting of others, can share ourselves with friends, family, and colleagues.
- Building your life around your natural talents and performance strengths instead of obsessing on weaknesses. When we are able to use our strengths, we are satisfying our natural urges, and thus we feel good about ourselves: we thrive and feel invigorated, we perform better and are more productive, and we have greater contentment and satisfaction.
The goal is to alleviate suffering (by identifying what is causing and contributing to it) and increase well-being (by increasing positive emotion, engagement, and meaning in life). Possible and tangible ways to help incorporate positive psychology into our own life, and the lives of those you interact with include: