Some intriguing research suggests that positive psychology can help you deal with life's routine ups and downs and also build resilience for times of greater adversity.
Here are three ways to capture the positive psychological benefits.
1. Express gratitude. Gratitude is an appreciation for what you have, including a roof over your head, good health, and caring people. When you recognize the goodness in your life, you begin to recognize that at least a portion of its origin lies outside of yourself. In this way, gratitude facilitates a connection to something greater than one's own experience, be it other people, nature, or a higher power. Set aside a few minutes each day to reflect on five large or small things for which you are grateful. You may jot them down if you wish. Be specific and remember the significance of each item.
2. Capitalize on your strengths. Before you can reap the benefits of your strengths, you must first identify them. Sadly, only about one-third of people have a useful understanding of their strengths, according to a British study. If something comes naturally to you, you may not recognize it as a strength because you take it for granted. If you are uncertain of your strengths, you can determine them by asking a trusted individual who knows you well, by observing what people compliment you on, and by considering what comes most naturally to you.
Certain qualities are most strongly associated with happiness. They consist of appreciation, optimism, vitality, curiosity, and love. Even if they do not come naturally to you, it is worthwhile to cultivate and apply these qualities in your daily life.
3. Savor the positive. The majority of individuals are primed to enjoy special occasions, such as a wedding or a vacation. On the other hand, mundane pleasures can pass without much notice. Savoring entails focusing on pleasure as it occurs and consciously appreciating the experience as it develops. Appreciating the small and large treasures in life contributes to happiness.
Multitasking is an enemy of appreciation. You cannot fully attend to multiple things despite your best efforts. If you are reading the newspaper and listening to the radio during breakfast, neither the meal nor the newspaper or radio program will be as enjoyable as they could be. If you are walking your dog on a scenic path while mentally reviewing your daily to-do list, you are missing the present.
Purchase Positive Psychology, a Special Health Report from Harvard Medical School for more information on drawing on your strengths and finding the positive meaning in your life.
