Using Positive Psychology to Obtain Long-term Happiness

Amy Taylor September 23, 2015

Positive psychology is a relatively new field of psychology that focuses on examining how people can be happier and more fulfilled. After all, at the end of the day, it’s the only thing we all want, regardless of who we are and what we do.

But no, you don’t need to take a course on positive psychology to be able to apply it on your life. Positive psychology can be practised in simple yet meaningful ways.

But first, let us define what happiness is and how it differs from fulfilment.

Happiness is defined as the fleeting state that reflects our enjoyment at the present moment. It is the wonderful feeling you experience whenever you play with your pet, cuddle with your hubby, hang out with your friends, overcome a challenge, or heard a great news. Once the moment is over, you return to your previous state of mind, but possibly with a more cheerful attitude. Fulfilment, on the other hand, persists over time. And in the long run, it contributes to our mental health.

Below are some simple ways to practice positive psychology in your everyday life.

Don’t buy happiness.

The best things in life are free, so goes a line from a popular song. You don’t need to have a mansion, a luxury car, or tons and tons of money just to experience happiness and fulfilment. In fact, according to one research, people who gave away a $20 bill that was given to them felt better than those who kept the money for themselves. More and more studies show that it’s not the material things that give us lasting happiness, but positive social relationships. Invest not on expensive clothes, gadgets or stuff. Invest on quality friendships, on a true and genuine intimate relationship, on family.

Be grateful of what you have.

Make it your personal goal not to ask for things you don’t have until you fully appreciate what you have. Gratefulness is one of key concepts of positive psychology. And the benefits of practicing gratitude are nearly endless. Meanwhile, lack of gratitude takes a huge toll on your mental health, and make you prone to disorders like depression. It’s true - not all of us are born with the tendency to see the water half full than half empty. But positive psychology experts agree that gratitude is a practice, so even if it doesn’t come naturally, we can develop the skill.

Make a difference.

Even the tiniest acts of kindness still have the potential to make a positive change for others, and for your life as well. Not only are acts of altruism sure to spike your happiness levels, but more and more research proves that it provides plenty of physical benefits, too. In fact, studies show that doing good deeds can actually help you live longer.

We need not be happy every single day for us to feel a sense of fulfilment. But people who have more positive experiences or ‘happy moments’ are most likely to feel more satisfied with their life. You may be unhappy at this very moment, but as long as you are focused on your goal and all other things you value in life, you will feel more fulfilled at the end of the day.