Abstract
The chapter reviews a variety of definitions and approaches to happiness. A model of happiness, including Engagement, Meaning, and Pleasure, is proposed. It then establishes some of the major myths and facts associated with happiness. Good positive psychology is scientific in approach and relies on robust research. Indeed, this is an alternative definition of the word “positive” from an objective, evidential perspective. Relevant studies demonstrate happiness matters for a wide variety of life outcomes and experiences, both from a qualitative and quantitative perspective. A review is then provided of 3 case studies of research-based pathways to achieving greater happiness, all building and broadening psychological strengths and personal resources. The first positive interventions in practise highlight the relationship between strengths and happiness among Indian students, using the Thriving Index. This is followed by the Strengths Compass study among students in the UAE, which demonstrated statistically significant advances among the individuals, their teachers, and parents. Finally, the impact of the Yanmu program is presented, aimed at building a growth mindset among a large number of male and female students in Saudi Arabia. In conclusion, the chapter demonstrates the sustainable impact of interventions that are adapted to the personal, social and cultural context of the individual concerned.
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Annexure
Annexure
Brief description of the 34 factors measured by the Thriving Index®
Congruence | Believing in your own personal principles and standards, those that you hold closest to you |
Efficacy | Believing in your personal capacity to accomplish goals, a sense of confidence |
Discipline | Approaching your life and work through self-control, sacrifice, and restraint |
Dutiful | Adhering to tasks and obligations, demonstrating reliability, consistency, and dependability |
Competitiveness | Seeking to win, comparing your success and performance to that of others |
Ambition | Being focused on progressing in your career, wanting to be recognised for your accomplishments |
Insightful | Making sense of complex information, data, and patterns, connecting the dots |
Systematic | Taking a methodological, rational, and analytical approach in your work and decisions |
Awareness | Keeping up-to-date with external trends, information, and influences, and being curious |
Perspective | Seeking to consider and evaluate information, data, and views from a strategic, big picture lens |
Creativity | Generating new ideas and out-of-the-box thinking, being innovative, and challenging the status quo |
Mastery | Achieving continuous improvement, excellence, and expertise in your area of specialisation |
Grit | Persevering to accomplish long-term goals despite challenges and setbacks, a sense of endurance |
Achievement | Being motivated by delivering results and avoiding failure, being goal-focused |
Conviction | Speaking up in the face of opposition, defending your own views and perspectives |
Accountability | Taking greater responsibility, having a desire and willingness to be in charge and lead others |
Autonomy | Being independent and self-sufficient, without the constant need for direction from others |
Resourcefulness | Getting the job done, making the best use of the information, assets, and support available |
Compassion | Concerning yourself with the welfare of others, a sense of altruism |
Empathy | Being aware of and focused on the thoughts, feelings, and emotions of others |
Sociable | Feeling confident in social interactions, being outgoing and approachable, a sense of extroversion |
Growth | Believing in your capacity and that of others to improve, change and realise your full potential |
Teamwork | Being motivated by working with others and being part of a team |
Collaboration | Bringing people together, actively breaking down barriers, and resolving differences |
Energy | Approaching your life and work with enthusiasm, anticipation, and excitement |
Optimism | Taking a positive view, expecting the best possible outcome from any given situation |
Contribution | Being motivated to go above and beyond what is expected from you |
Purpose | Seeking a sense of fulfilment and meaning from your work, wanting to make an impact |
Compliance | Conforming to established rules, policies, procedures, and the guidance of others |
Courage | Overcoming your fears, challenges, and barriers, daring to be bold and brave |
Ambiguity | Dealing with uncertainty, making decisions with incomplete information or unclear outcomes |
Agility | Demonstrating a willingness to adapt to new situations and changes, and being flexible |
Resilience | Being able to cope with and bounce back from failures, setbacks, and challenges |
Venturesome | Actively seeking new experiences and challenges, being open and adventurous |
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Punshi, R., Jones, D.B. (2023). Building Personal Resources for Happiness. In: Chetri, S., Dutta, T., Mandal, M.K., Patnaik, P. (eds) Understanding Happiness. Springer, Singapore. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-981-99-3493-5_13
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