We all want to be happy. Who doesn´t? However, happiness is a notoriously difficult thing to pin down, and by focusing on it too intensely, we can end up feeling unfulfilled. In this article we'll look at the PERMA Model. This helps us think about what we need to do to flourish – and be really happy as a result! It is the science behind what can make you a happier you.
About the Model
The PERMA Model was firstly published by respected positive psychologist, Martin Seligman in 1998 and was widely published in his influential 2011 book, "Flourish.". PERMA stands for the five essential elements that should be in place for us to experience lasting well-being. These are:
1. Positive Emotion (P)
For us to experience well-being, we need positive emotion in our lives. Any positive emotion such as peace, gratitude, satisfaction, pleasure, inspiration, hope, curiosity, or love falls into this category – and the message is that it's really important to enjoy yourself in the here and now, just as long as the other elements of PERMA are in place.
2. Engagement (E)
When we're truly engaged in a situation, task, or project, we experience a state of flow : time seems to stop, we lose our sense of self, and we concentrate intensely on the present.
This feels really good! The more we experience this type of engagement, the more likely we are to experience well-being.
3. Positive Relationships (R)
As humans, we are "social beings," and good relationships are core to our well-being. Time and again, we see that people who have meaningful, positive relationships with others are happier than those who do not. Relationships really do matter!
4. Meaning (M)
Meaning comes from serving a cause bigger than ourselves. Whether this is a specific deity or religion, or a cause that helps humanity in some way, we all need meaning in our lives to have a sense of well-being.
5. Accomplishment/Achievement (A)
Many of us strive to better ourselves in some way, whether we're seeking to master a skill, achieve a valuable goal, or win in some competitive event. As such, accomplishment is another important thing that contributes to our ability to flourish.
Using the PERMA Model
Once you're aware of the things that make up well-being (instead of focusing on happiness alone), it's much easier to live a rich, meaningful life. Here at younghappyminds.com, we will teach you the various techniques for each element in the Perma-model. Stick around!