Positive assumption the good life

Question 1

Define what is meant by ‘focus on the “good life’’ ‘

Answer 1

Seligman distinguishes between 3 desirable lives: ​

The pleasant life- happiness comes from pursuing positive emotions in relation to the past, present and future (starting point)​

The good life- happiness comes from pursuing activities that positively absorb and engage us​

The meaningful life- happiness comes from a deep sense of fulfilment by living for a purpose much greater than oneself (Seligman encourages people to go further than the ‘good life’)

Question 2

Explain what is meant by ‘focus on the “good life” ‘

Answer 2

The qualities that define the good life are those that enrich our lives make life worth living ​

The good life is a combination of 3 elements:​

Positive connections to others - The ability to accept ourselves and others ​

Positive individual traits - Personal qualities unique to us (e.g. bravery, morality, loyalty etc) ​

Life regulation qualities - Developing the ability to monitor and control our own behaviour

Question 3

Examples of ‘focus on the “good life” ‘

Answer 3

Csikszentmihalyi developed the concept of ‘flow’ – which is a key component of ‘the good life’ ​

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To achieve ‘flow’ in an activity we need the right balance of challenge and skill. ​

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Different activities will lead to a flow state for different people