The PERMA Model is a well-being theory developed by positive psychologist Martin Seligman. PERMA identifies five essential elements of wellbeing. By focusing on all five of these elements, we can flourish in life and find the happiness we want. PERMA gives us the starting point for
living a great life
Positive Emotion In order to experience well-being, we need positive emotion in our lives. Positive emotions like connectedness, happiness,
hopefulness, love and peacefulness renew our energy and rejuvenate us. If you aren’t experiencing enough positive emotions in your life, stop
and think why. What are some ways you can leverage using your talents, strengths and positive connections? What is it you can do to bring
them more fully into your daily life?
Engagement When we are truly engaged in a situation, task, or project, we experience a state of flow: time seems to stand still, we lose our
sense of self, and we concentrate intensely on the present. Knowing your “sweet spot” (what you are good at and what you just love to do even
if you’re not paid for it) can feel really good and enhances well-being. Do you pursue activities and interests that fascinate and fulfill you? Do
you feel engaged in your personal and professional life? Identify your sweet spot and then look for opportunities to engage. LJ
Relationship As humans we are “social beings” and good relationships are core to our well-being. People who have meaningful and positive
relationships with others are happier than those who do not. Yes, relationships do matter! Do you have positive relationships in your life with a
partner, family, friends, neighbors, colleagues or are you spending a lot of energy in relationships that are negative and draining? What
relationships would you like to prioritize and what do you need to let go of? How might you strengthen your current relationships or develop
new connections?
Meaning Meaning comes from serving a cause or focusing on something bigger than ourselves. Most of us want to believe that we’re working
and living with a greater purpose. What ignites you, gets you out of bed in the morning? Having meaning is like having a compass that provides
direction and a sense of purpose. Simon Sinek says “It’s not what we do, it’s why we do it”. What holds deep meaning for you, do you know
your why? How can you apply your “why” to your personal and professional life?
Accomplishment/Achievement Many of us strive to better ourselves in some way, whether we’re seeking to master a skill, achieve a goal, or
win a competition. In our achievement–driven culture, we can easily run ourselves ragged and miss the journey in pursuit of the next goal.
Studies have shown accomplishment comes from acknowledging the small incremental steps. Well-being is enhanced by taking forward steps
and is less about the goal itself. Accomplishment can come from devoting time and energy to what has meaning or celebrating each small new
learning. It’s the base hits not the home run that counts! How are you recognizing and celebrating your accomplishments and incremental
steps?