Maybe you’ve noticed that everything seems more negative when you’re feeling down. How does this happen? How we feel influences our perception of the world. When there are multiple negative events happening, it confirms the negative view we hold and everything seems to become more miserable. You can be aware of your negative ‘glasses’, but when someone tells you to “be more positive!”, you only feel worse. You want to, but it’s just not that easy!

What is positive psychology?

Positive psychology is an approach that focuses on thoughts, feelings and behaviour to improve strengths and increase positive elements in your life. Instead of ‘fixing’ problems, the goal is to improve general well-being and expanding happiness. Its main focus lies more on the present and the future instead of the past. Its biggest and most important effect is being taught the power of shifting one’s perspective. By applying positive psychology, you will discover that both the negative and the positive world can coexist!

Important aspects of positivity

Martin Seligman is a famous psychologist and supporter of positive psychology. He developed a model which contains 5 important elements for well-being.

• Positive emotions.  Searching for positive emotions only is not enough. It’s also important to be able to create positive experiences. Keep some space to feel okay sometimes!
• Engagement. Another important aspect of positivity is being able to become completely absorbed in something you enjoy and you excel at. It’s difficult to improve your well-being when there’s nothing you want to invest your soul into.
• Relationships. Because the human being is a social animal, it’s important to feel supported by others. A deep meaningful connection with someone else can contribute a lot to your well-being.
• Meaning. When you can commit yourself to a greater good, you will give more meaning to your life. Giving meaning to your life contributes to your well-being!
• Performance. It seems obvious, but performing, reaching personal goals and improving yourself, are important for your well-being. Striving towards performances creates more pleasure in living and gives you energy.

What can you do?

So far the positive health model. But how do you put this into practice?

• It’s important to do something that you enjoy every day. Make it routine and plan something fun every day. It can be something small! For example, read a book, enjoy your dinner or play a game on your phone.
• Do you do many things you do not enjoy? It is important to do things that support  your interests and passions and where you can develop your skills.
• How are your relationship with friends and family? Put effort in relationships with people that are worthy, so that you build meaningful and deep bonds with them.
• What gives you a sense of satisfaction? Find meaning in work, a personal hobby or your free time. Maybe volunteering is something for you?
• What are your goals? In addition to your daily activities, focus on your personal ambitions and successes. Learn Spanish or dream of writing a book. Go for it!

Take time to see what is going well in your life and try to make time for these things: friendship, a hobby, a sport, it can be anything! Write about it in your journal in the NiceDay App.