PERMA + Vitality – Theory of Well-Being Basics

The PERMA + Vitality model is the basis of Dr. Martin Seligman’s theory. It is made up of five defining factors which contribute to a person’s well-being. These five building blocks are comprised of:

1. Positive Emotion
2. Engagement
3. Relationships
4. Meaning
5. Accomplishment

These five building blocks equal PERMA, and the goal of Seligman’s theory is to work towards improving each to lead to flourishing well-being. Everyone will have varying levels of success with each of the five building blocks, depending on their character. However, it is essential to know what each building block comprises.

• Positive Emotion: The route towards well-being is increasing one’s positive emotions. With realistic expectations, we can improve our positive emotions about the past through gratitude and forgiveness, the present through mindfulness and simple pleasures, and the future through hope and optimism. However, our emotions tend to fluctuate and vary from person to person. So, if you are not very emotional, then fear not; the other four building blocks are further open-ended.
• Engagement: This building block goes together with character strengths in that it is an experience wherein you fully deploy your skills and expertise towards a given challenging task. The “flow†generated from the activity alone is satisfying and fulfilling. Therefore, being challenged and overcoming tasks towards your goals by using your strengths is essential. 
• Relationships: They are a fundamental part of well-being. Relationships can amplify positive emotions, joy, laughter, belonging, etc. Family, friends, and acquaintances can give life purpose and meaning, and support from these relationships is one of the best ways to combat low points throughout your life. Kindness, empathy, teamwork, cooperation, and more are essential to building solid relationships, which are significant to us as social beings.
• Meaning: A sense of purpose can be derived from many places, often more extensive than oneself—religion, family, politics, etc. There are countless ways, but usually, meaning is derived from a sense of belonging to such examples. 
• Accomplishment: The final building block people often pursue is the most for its own sake. Aiming to master a skill, succeed in a challenging task, or achieve a goal. However, it is vital to pursue accomplishment for its own sake and not as a means to an end.

The five building blocks contribute to well-being under the stipulations that they are pursued for their own sake, not as a means to an end. Finally, when measuring each building block, it is essential to measure them independently of the other elements. Improving these building blocks of Seligman’s PERMA + Vitality theory can lead to happiness and well-being. 

References

“PERMA^TM Theory of Well-Being and PERMA^TM Workshops | Positive Psychology Center.†UPENN, ppc.sas.upenn.edu/learn-more/perma-theory-well-being-and-perma-workshops. Accessed 10 July 2022.

“The PERMA + V Model Dr. Martin Sellgman’s Wellbeing Theory.†Its Mental, www.itsmental.co.uk/PERMA-V-MODEL. Accessed 10 July 2022.