Positive Psychology is a recent branch of psychology that has developed theories and practices involving human happiness. Practitioners of positive psychology encourage people to increase their well-being by shifting attention to the more positive aspects of life.
Their suggestions include:
1. Every evening think over your day and note your accomplishments, what went right.
2. Keep a success log. Instead of just having a “to do” list write an “I did it” list.
3. Identify what your strengths are and try to work with them. For more information on finding your strengths visit www.authentichappiness.org
4. Write three good things that happened to you and share them with your family.
5. Take two minutes and think about three things that you are grateful for, everyday.
Research has shown that these simple exercises can have a profound effect on your emotional health. As parents we are always looking for ways to increase the happiness quotient in our home. It is essential to cultivate our positive attitude and share this with our children. This shows our children that personal growth and self improvement are values that we embrace. By modeling these positive behaviors we are teaching our children by doing, not with lecturing and moralizing. This will certainly make your children grateful and happy.
Adapted from Harvard Mental Health Newsletter, (May, 2008). Retrieved 2/07/10 from www.health.harvard.edu