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How is your Positive Psychology?
If you have heard of the burgeoning field of Positive Psychology, perhaps you have wondered if it is just another "self-help" or "new age" trend assuring us that as long as we smile enough, everything will be ok.
In actuality, Positive Psychology is a science-based field of study that puts forth the idea that positive emotions, positive character traits, and positive insitutions enable people over time, to thrive. So, is it all hearts and flowers? No. Most Positive Psychology reseachers agree that positive emotions do need a balance with some negative emotions in order for people to think realistically and to not undestimate risks.
Even so, a tipped balance too far towards negativity and criticism can cause us to close ourselves off from some experiences that would bring richness, vitality, and love to our lives. The cynical attitude, for example, can be one that keeps us stuck in our ways.
Here are a few ideas from the field of Positive Psychology to bring us more openness and overall, more life satisfaction: - Count your blessings. Take time out to express gratitude for at least one thing every day. Writing for 5 minutes a day in a gratitude journal is a great way to start.
- Pay attention to what brings you a sense of peace and serenity. Make sure to incorporate whatever that is into your life every week.
- Open your heart to others in a meaningful way. Show interest and curiosity in others' lives. Go towards others with love, and as much as possible without your emotional "protective armor".
- If you don't have enough fun and amusement in your life, seek it out! Humor, play, and creativity are all components of building our well-being. Many of are sorely lacking in this area.
- Foster a sense of hope when things are difficult. Holding hope for yourself and for others can make a huge positive impact on healing and growth.
I recently watched a video, now quite popular on the Internet, that brought these ideas home to me in a very powerful way!
Brene Brown is a professor in the field of Social Work who has completed a decade-long study on the ideas of shame and empathy. Through her hundreds of interviews looking at what enables people to flourish, she came up with a concept she calls "Wholeheartedness". I encourage you to watch this 20-minute video for some true inspiration on this imporant topic.
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Everywhere we look in today's world, we see how "edginess", "sarcasm", and other forms of snark are now a familiar part of our cultural fabric. 
