As someone who has been discovering and developing her own approach to mindfulness, I fervently believe that PERMA is a combination of elements that can constitute one’s satisfaction and happiness in life.
To me, “Positive Emotion” is a realistic goal to reach flourishing because it leads people into optimism, but also acknowledges the reality of pessimism and negative emotions. A lot of articles and books on mental health seem to talk about happiness and the constant state of happiness. I think that this is an unrealistic goal that goes against human psychology. One must realize both the emotional highs and lows in order to appreciate and be grateful for the highs. I have been keeping a Gratitude Journal for the last few months and it has helped me to see Georgetown as a place full of opportunities and has also made me realized that the struggles I face in college help me grow as a person. I am grateful to have Positive Emotion in my life.
Engagement is one thing that I am still working on flourishing in. I exercise regularly and have joined the school’s newspaper, The Hoya. However, if I were to join an organization or community where I could play the guitar and sing, I would feel much more engaged. Since I moved to the United States I think that the one emptiness in my life is my lack of expression of artistic talent. Such engagement would help build my artistic confidence again and would allow me to meet new people. Setting goals regarding my musical skills would also help me get my mind off of my rigorous schedule at Georgetown.
Furthermore, flourishing in my relationships would impact my mental health and well-being positively. It is inarguably not easy to find intimacy with people in your first years of college. Yet, if I were to join more clubs and would have more events to attend, I think I would have less alone time and would feel more emotionally satisfied. On the other hand, I think I do a good job with staying in touch with my family and friends in Turkey. This strong connection with loved ones at home reminds me of how much I am loved and cared for.
Most college students are unsure of what they want to do for the rest of their professional careers. In my case, I am not struggling with that as much as other people do. I do not look for meaning in a profession, rather I was taught by my mother to study whatever field I am truly interested in. However, sometimes I question the purpose of studying so hard and paying so much money for my university education as well. I think that if I had a clearer meaning and purpose to why I should pursue my education I would enjoy academic tasks more.
Finally, accomplishment is a sensitive element of PERMA because I think that many can misinterpret it easily. My understanding of Seligman’s idea of accomplishment is living a life for the sake of accomplishment. If I was flourishing in accomplishment, I think that I would stop worrying about money and material superiority and would focus on achievement for the sole purpose of achieving something and that would bring more satisfaction from the work that I do.
