Better Every Day

Flipping the Script: Why Happiness is the Real Key to Unlocking Success

Imagine embarking on a journey towards peak performance and success, only to realize that the key to reaching your goals lies not in the relentless pursuit of achievements, but in cultivating happiness. Research has consistently shown that happiness is a precursor to success, and understanding the science behind it can be a game-changer in our pursuit of excellence. One powerful tool in this pursuit is the PERMA Happy Map, a framework developed by positive psychology pioneer Martin Seligman. Here, we'll explore how happiness paves the way to success and how the PERMA model can be your guide to a happier, more successful life.

Happiness as a Precursor to Success

For many, the formula for success seems straightforward: work hard, achieve goals, and then find happiness in the aftermath. However, science suggests that this formula is flawed. Shawn Achor, a leading researcher in positive psychology, argues in his book "The Happiness Advantage" that our traditional view of success and happiness is backwards. He contends that it's not success that leads to happiness, but happiness that leads to success.

The science behind this assertion is rooted in neuroscience and psychology. When we are happy, our brains function at their best. We become more creative, resilient, and motivated. Dopamine, a neurotransmitter associated with pleasure, is released when we experience happiness, which in turn boosts our problem-solving skills and cognitive flexibility. Consequently, when we are happy, we are better equipped to tackle challenges, adapt to change, and persevere in the face of adversity—all critical components of achieving success.

Understanding PERMA: The Roadmap to Happiness

Martin Seligman, often considered the founding father of positive psychology, introduced the PERMA model as a framework for understanding happiness. PERMA stands for Positive Emotion, Engagement, Relationships, Meaning, and Accomplishment. Let's break down each component and see how it contributes to happiness and, subsequently, success. 

1. Positive Emotion: This component involves experiencing joy, gratitude, serenity, interest, hope, pride, amusement, inspiration, and awe. By intentionally seeking out and nurturing positive emotions, we can enhance our overall sense of happiness. 

2. Engagement: Engagement refers to the state of flow, where time seems to fly, and you are completely absorbed in an activity. When you engage in tasks that align with your strengths and passions, you not only experience happiness but also perform at your best. 

3. Relationships: Human beings are inherently social creatures. Building and maintaining positive relationships with friends, family, and colleagues is essential for our well-being. Strong social connections are a significant predictor of happiness and long-term success. 

4. Meaning: Finding meaning in what you do provides a deep sense of purpose and fulfillment. Whether it's through your work, volunteering, or personal pursuits, having a clear sense of meaning in your life can lead to greater happiness. 

5. Accomplishment: Achieving goals and recognizing your accomplishments contributes significantly to your sense of happiness. Setting achievable, meaningful goals and celebrating your progress along the way can boost your motivation and happiness. 

Using the PERMA Happy Map to Cultivate Happiness

Now that we understand the components of the PERMA model, let's explore how you can use it as a roadmap to cultivate happiness and, consequently, pave the way to success: 

1. Assessment: Start by assessing your current level of happiness in each of the PERMA components. Identify areas where you might be lacking and need improvement. 

2. Set Goals: Establish clear and realistic goals for each component. For example, if you realize that your social relationships could use improvement, set a goal to connect with friends and family more regularly. 

3. Practice Mindfulness: Mindfulness meditation can help you cultivate positive emotions, engage more fully in the present moment, and find meaning in everyday experiences. 

4. Strengths-Based Approach: Identify your strengths and talents and align your activities with them. When you engage in activities that leverage your strengths, you're more likely to experience flow and happiness. 

5. Nurture Relationships: Invest time and effort in building and maintaining positive relationships. Reach out to friends, spend quality time with loved ones, and foster connections at work. 

6. Pursue Meaningful Goals: Seek out activities and projects that align with your values and provide a sense of purpose. Volunteering and giving back to the community can also be powerful sources of meaning. 

7. Celebrate Achievements: Recognize and celebrate your accomplishments, no matter how small they may seem. Positive reinforcement can boost your confidence and motivation.

In the pursuit of success, it's crucial to remember that happiness is not the endpoint but the starting point of your journey. Science has shown that happiness is a precursor to success, and understanding the PERMA Happy Map can be your guide to achieving both. By intentionally cultivating positive emotions, engaging fully in your pursuits, nurturing relationships, finding meaning, and celebrating accomplishments, you can create a foundation of happiness that will empower you to reach new heights of success. So, take the first step on your journey toward happiness and success today, armed with the wisdom of positive psychology and the PERMA model as your compass.

References

1. Achor, S. (2010). The Happiness Advantage: The Seven Principles of Positive Psychology That Fuel Success and Performance at Work. Crown Publishing. 

2. Seligman, M. E. P. (2011). Flourish: A Visionary New Understanding of Happiness and Well-being. Free Press. 

3. Seligman, M. E. P., Steen, T. A., Park, N., & Peterson, C. (2005). Positive psychology progress: Empirical validation of interventions. American Psychologist, 60(5), 410-421. 

4. Seligman, M. E. P., & Csikszentmihalyi, M. (2000). Positive psychology: An introduction. American Psychologist, 55(1), 5-14.