PERMA + Vitality – Benefits of Well-Being
Building on the foundation of the basics of the PERMA + Vitality theory, there are several benefits of the theory contributing to well-being. Research has shown that not only is it satisfying to have well-being, but it also has real-world effects. There are several notable distinctions between low well-being and those with high levels of well-being, many of which improve the overall quality of daily life. Some examples of the directions are as follows:
- Better work performance
- Satisfying relationships
- Improved cooperation
- Stronger immune systems
- Improved physical health
- Longer life
- Reduced cardiovascular-related health issues
- Fewer sleep problems
- Lower burnout
- Self-control
- Improved self-regulation and coping
- Prosocial
To that end, one of the essential components of well-being is optimism. Having hopefulness and confidence about the potential outcome of a future something. Everyone has occasional doubts or negative thoughts, but the ability to see the positive side of any situation is vital. Studies have shown that optimism is a crucial factor of the PERMA + Vitality Theory of Well-Being and brings many additional benefits compared to pessimism, such as:
- Decreased levels of depression and anxiety
- Improved performance at work, school, or even in sports
- Reduced risk of failure, dropping out, etc.
- Better outcomes of physical health, i.e., fewer illnesses, lower mortality risk, and faster recoveries.
These various benefits can have profound impacts on many aspects of our lives and, altogether, improve our lives and well-being. Well-being also has a significant impact on businesses, organizations, and communities. Even beyond that scope, well-being in much of today’s developed society is no longer measured solely by having food, clothes, and shelter. These have become fundamental aspects of much of the developed world. Instead, well-being is more associated with our social relationships, work satisfaction, and meaning in our lives. Beyond a certain point, research has shown that income factors matter less towards well-being and has rapidly diminishing returns.
However, the importance of well-being cannot be overstated. In our daily lives, the potential benefits on an individual level can be applied to any business, organization, or community; thus, it becomes an essential utilization as a good leader. To sustain well-being, people need supportive, positive relationships and social belonging in our increasingly developed world. Going forward, the goal will be to break down the individual aspects of each letter in PERMA, the importance of Vitality, the theory as a whole, and how it can be effectively utilized as a leader.
References
“PERMATM Theory of Well-Being and PERMATM 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.
