What is Positive Psychology?

What is positive psychology all about, and why is it at the heart of The Functional Medicine Coaching Academy’s approach to training health coaches? What makes it so powerful when it comes to creating change?

Suffering and well-being are both part of the human condition. An individual’s happiness is just as authentic as their distress. People want to cultivate the best versions of themselves and live meaningful lives. They want to grow their capacities for love and compassion, creativity and curiosity, work and resilience, and integrity and wisdom.

“Positive psychology is the scientific study of what makes life most worth living.” (Peterson, 2008).

On the What The Func?! Podcast, hosts Laura and Clayton talk to positive psychology expert Laura E. Taylor, MAPP.  “Positive psychology focuses on the human experience,” Taylor shared. “A common misconception is that you have to be positive all the time. But that is not the case. All emotions matter, and give us really important information.” 

In Functional Medicine, we use positive psychology strategies and objectives such as the “PERMA” Theory of Well-Being model:

P – Positive Emotions

E – Engagement

R – (Positive) Relationships

M – Meaning

A – Accomplishment / Achievement

Research has shown that positive psychology can bring about beneficial real-world impact almost immediately, such as:

• Productivity and motivation at work, less burnout
• More meaningful relationships
• Building stronger immune systems
• Improved physical health
• Reduced sleep issues
• Greater self-control

The key to positive psychology is to practice. Positive feelings may not always come naturally and that is okay. Listening to your body and mind is the key to changing your mindset. For more information, try our Specialty Course: Basics of Positive Psychology.