The PERMA model was designed by Martin Seligman and includes five core elements of psychological wellbeing and happiness. Seligman believes that these five elements can help people reach a life of fulfillment, happiness, and meaning. This model can also be applied to institutions to design programs to help people develop new cognitive and emotional tools.
P – Positive Emotions
Positive Emotions are the most obvious connection to happiness. Being able to focus on positive emotions is more than just smiling, it is the ability to be optimistic and view the past, present, and future in a positive perspective. This positive view in life can help you in relationships and work, and inspire you to become more creative and take more chances. In everyone’s life there are highs and lows. Focusing on the lows increases your chances of developing depression, therefore you should focus on the high and positive aspects of life. There are also many health benefits to optimism and positivity.
Distinguishing between pleasure and enjoyment is important. Pleasure is connected to satisfying bodily needs for survival; such as thirst, hunger, and sleep. Enjoyment comes from intellectual stimulation and creativity, for example when a child completes a complex Lego car that requires its concentration, it will be beaming with joy and satisfaction. This type of positive emotion is important since if people enjoy the tasks in their lives they are more likely to persevere and battle challenges through creative and alternative solutions.
E – Engagement
It is important to be able to find activities in our lives that require our full engagement. It is necessary for us to learn, grow and nurture our personal happiness.
Everyone is different and we all find enjoyment in different things, whether it’s playing an instrument, playing a sport, dancing, working on an interesting project or focusing on a hobby. We all need something in our lives that entirely absorbs us into the present moment, creating a ‘flow’ of blissful immersion into the task or activity. This type of ‘flow’ of engagement is important to stretch our intelligence, skills, and emotional capabilities.
R – Relationships
Relationships and social connections are one of the most important aspects of life. Humans are social animals that long for connection, love, intimacy, and a strong emotional and physical interaction with other humans. Building positive relationships with your parents, siblings, peers, and friends is important to spread love and joy. Having strong relationships gives you support in difficult times.
Research indicates that pain centers in our brain become activated when we are at risk of being isolated. This is because in an evolutionary perspective, isolation would be the worst thing we could do in terms of increasing our survival chances.
M – Meaning
Having a purpose and meaning to why we are on this earth is important to live a life of happiness and fulfillment. Rather than the pursuit of pleasure and material wealth, there is an actual meaning to our life. Such a meaning gives people a reason and a realization that there is a greater purpose to life. To understand the greater impact of your work and why you chose to pursuit it, will help you enjoy the tasks more and become more satisfied and happier.
A – Accomplishments
Having goals and ambitions in life can help us achieve things as well as a sense of accomplishment. You should set realistic goals that can be met and just putting in the effort to achieve these goals can already give you a sense of satisfaction. Having accomplishments in life is important to push ourselves to thrive and flourish.
How to apply the PERMA model in your life
Being aware of the PERMA model is the first step in applying this theory into your life. Remember to think in a positive perspective at home and at work. Find the things that make you happy and fully engaged. You could even set a goal to achieve more and challenge yourself in activities you enjoy. Focus on your relationships with your family and friends by finding ways to connect and enjoy each other’s company. Find the meaning in your life and what gives you a sense of purpose and don’t forget that this is different for everyone.
Originally published at Positive Psychology Program
