Positive Psychology
Positive Psychology – an evidence-based strategy.
Positive psychology was introduced as a new arm of psychology by Martin Seligman in 1998, which sought to change the focus from looking at the negative aspects of what was wrong with people to embracing and developing what is right with people.
Much more than the popularised self-help strategies, Positive Psychology is an evidence-based Science, meaning that the theories and methods practised have been stringently researched and tested and have documented results.
So what can it do for you?
Almost like a sweet shop, you can browse through a plethora of tried and tested interventions from mindfulness and meditation to practicing acts of kindness and cultivating optimism, enhancing your life and creating the best version of yourself you can be.
Isn’t this the same as self-help?
Positive psychology interventions (PPIs) are based on scientific research and evidence, whereas self-help tends to be anecdotal and can often follow non-proven theories. PPIs are measurable and follow a formula, with guidelines for timing, frequency and trackable results.
Where can I find theses PPIs?
There are a number of great resources online which can guide you and teach you. Martin Seligman’s ‘Authentic Happiness’ also offers some great questionnaires to track your progress on your journey to the ‘Good Life’.
Some useful links are included below:
VIA Character Strengths - Identify your strengths and play to them
Three Good Things – Learn the benefits of gratitude with this simple daily task
Meditation – An effective programme for meditation to get you started
Best Possible Self - Theory behind the concept and simple exercise
Acts of Kindness - The most awesome site which inspires RAKtavists across the globe
Yoga – Get started with some of the top DIY sites
Savouring – The Art of Positive savouring
Mindfulness – A run-down of some of the best apps
Authentic Happiness – A superb resource for questionnaires to measure the effects of your wellbeing
I will keep adding to these but hopefully you will get a small flavor for what is out there and be inspired to embrace a little positive psychology yourself!
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