Positive Psychology is the scientific study of the strengths that enable individuals and communities to thrive. The field is founded on the belief that people want to lead meaningful and fulfilling lives, to cultivate what is best within themselves, and to enhance their experiences of love, work, and play. Known as the father of Positive Psychology, Martin Seligman has described multiple versions of what it means to live happily and they are the Pleasant Life (Hollywood’s view of happiness), the Good Life (focused on personal strengths and engagement) and the Meaningful Life. Psychologists who have studied positive psychology have explored a range of experiences and behaviors that are involved in different versions of positive living, which include specific positive emotions, sense of meaning or purpose and “flow states”.
Positive psychology can be a very useful form of therapy for those who are feeling “less than” in their lives. It can help them to find the “positives” in their everyday life. And although the focus of positive psychology is on happiness and fulfillment in their lives, it is important to note that this does not mean that people are advised to put away their negative thoughts and emotions. It is literally a state of mind. People who are flourishing make the room in their lives for this state of mind.
Benefits to this state of mind helps to develop certain character strengths, positive emotions, a sense of meaning and a purpose in life.
To read more on Positive Psychology, check it out here on Psychologytoday.com