What is Positive Psychology & Why is it Important?
Greetings, Happiness Enthusiasts! Get ready to embark on a journey into the sunny realms of Positive Psychology- So, kick back, grab your positivity shades, and dive into the radiant sea of well-being!...
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History of Positive Psychology
The field first started as a concept floating around in the minds of psychologists in the late 1990s. The former president of the American Psychological Association, Martin Seligman, spearheaded it into popularity.
Up till then, “psychology” revolved around dealing with diagnosis and treatment of mental illnesses and related derivatives, and it did not focus on the positive attributes that make life worth living. Positive Psychology aims to change that dynamic and put the limelight on positive individual traits to improve the quality of life.1
Why Should You Befriend Positive Psychology?
Exploring avenues to enhance one's joy, resilience, and overall life satisfaction prompts the consideration of Positive Psychology as an invaluable ally. Beyond being a field of study, Positive Psychology emerges as a transformative force. This endeavour seeks not only to investigate but also to furnish individuals with the requisite tools for imbuing their world with more vibrant and positive hues.
The Science behind the Smiles
Positive Psychology is not just rainbows and butterflies; it is a scientific inquiry into what makes life truly fulfilling and delightful. Researchers delve into the factors that contribute to a life well-lived, from cultivating meaningful relationships to finding purpose in your pursuits.
This study is also about taking the lives of average people up to “great” instead of focusing solely on struggling to move up to “normal”.2
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Positive Psychology unveils in six fundamental acts:
- Positive Emotions: Elevate your daily narrative by placing joy, gratitude, and love at the forefront, ushering in an encore of positivity.
- Engagement: Immerse yourself in activities that resonate with your passions, entering a flow state where time becomes inconsequential, and satisfaction soars.
- Relationships: Tap into the transformative power of meaningful connections, recognizing that life is significantly enriched when shared with kindred spirits.
- Meaning: Discover your guiding North Star by aligning your actions with a deeper purpose, crafting a narrative that transcends the ordinary.
- Accomplishments: Acknowledge and celebrate victories, regardless of their scale, savouring the sweet taste of success and fostering a positive mindset.
- Vitality: Infuse energy into your body and mind, cultivating a zest for life that propels you forward with unwavering enthusiasm and vigour.
Why Positive Psychology Matters in Your World?
Positive Psychology holds the keys to enhanced well-being, resilience in the face of challenges, and improved mental and physical health. By adopting a positive mind-set, you are not just a spectator in the play of life; you are the star of your own feel-good story.
In Conclusion: Crafting Your Masterpiece!
Positive Psychology is not a fleeting mood; it is the art of sculpting a life that resonates with joy and meaning. As we navigate through the realms of positive emotions and well-being; remember, you are not just learning but you are crafting your own masterpiece of a life that is worth celebrating.
So, fellow happiness architects, as we journey deeper into the world of Positive Psychology and its values in future articles, let's not just explore; let's sculpt a life that radiates with the brilliance of positivity. Your canvas awaits its vibrant strokes!
Keep in touch for the next releases on this topic. Happy Reading!
References:
- Walters S. 1.2 The Evolution of Psychology: History, Approaches, and Questions. Psychology-1st Canadian Edition. 2020.
- Park N, Peterson C. Positive psychology, and character strengths: Application to strengths-based school counseling. Professional school counseling. 2008; 12(2):2156759X0801200214.
Author:
Riddhiman Bhattacharyya, B. Tech. Medical Biotechnology First Year Student, Dr. D. Y. Patil Biotechnology and Bioinformatics Institute, Tathawade, Dr. D. Y. Patil Vidyapeeth, Pune.
Edited by:
Dr. Viniti Vaidya, Dr. D. Y. Patil Biotechnology and Bioinformatics Institute, Tathawade, Dr. D. Y. Patil Vidyapeeth, Pune.