Book Review: Flourish by Martin Seligman

Martin Seligman is a name that has floated around my psyche since my university days; he was one of the many surnames that I remembered as part of the reams of theories, studies and data that propped up my Psychology Degree. In more recent years, his work is part of my coaching business; both in the 1:1 work that I do and the well-being workshops. Yet, I came to realise, that this revolutionary book hadn’t made it off my to-read list! This month, I’m discussing, “Flourish: A New Understanding of Happiness and Wellbeing – and How to Achieve Them”.*

 

Martin Seligman’s theories moved from the learned helplessness space into groundbreaking positive psychology including learned optimism – something that is often quoted but frequently misunderstood. Flourish feels more autobiographical than a personal development book at times; he shares in detail the way his theories have evolved and the research that has supported them. So, what is positive psychology? Very simply, Positive psychology focuses on the study of strengths, virtues, and positive experiences; emphasising the benefit of gratitude.

 

The centre part of his work is around PERMA: which stands for Positive emotions, Engagement, Relationships, Meaning and Accomplishment. This is the framework that he believes, and his research supports, creates a life and a world of positive well-being. He deftly argues that the ongoing aspiration of happiness, on its own, isn’t enough, but that the outcomes of happiness are something that should be taken more seriously. He mentions several times the benefits to society, productivity and the economy, of measuring a nation’s happiness, more than the GDP, when considering political policies and society as a whole.

 

One of the book’s strengths lies in Seligman’s ability to bridge the gap between academic research and everyday application. He seamlessly weaves together scientific studies, personal anecdotes, and real-life examples, making the concepts relatable and accessible to readers from all walks of life. This approach allows readers to not only grasp the theory but also envision how it can be integrated into their journeys. Whilst it was published in 2011, over a decade on, so much of what he is referring to is relevant to the current state of the world. 

 

It is not just his view though, numerous studies have found strong positive links between the PERMA components (positive emotion, engagement, relationships, meaning, and accomplishment) and physical health, vitality, job satisfaction, life satisfaction, and organisational commitment.

 

 

However, it is worth noting that “Flourish” may occasionally feel overly academic or theoretical, particularly for those seeking a more casual read. Seligman’s comprehensive exploration of the subject matter, while enriching, can at times result in information overload. Nonetheless, readers who are willing to delve into the depths of positive psychology will find a wealth of knowledge to inspire their personal growth and well-being.

 

Now in typical Clara Cliff Notes style, here are the four takeaways from Flourish:

 

 

 

The power of being in Flow

One of the central ideas in “Flourish” is the concept of “engagement” or “flow” — the state of being fully absorbed and immersed in an activity. You go into flow when your highest strengths are used to meet the highest challenges that come your way. Doing this successfully leads to more positive emotion, more meaning, more accomplishment and better relationships. How often do you think you are in this state? If you want to know what your strengths are, you can find one of several assessments here. 

 

 

Consider what you truly think!

As part of PERMA, meaning is an important aspect. How do you identify the meaning in your life? Interesting to note, within the book, that most of what we care about is learned (which often comes up in my values work with clients!) Consider PERMA and ask yourself what you want, rather than what you have been told is important. 

 

Why do you do, what you do? 

Just consider how much your work feeds into your well-being. However, not all work is the same. We are shown how sociologists distinguish between a job, a career and a calling. Very simply, Job = money, career = promotion calling = is done for its own sake. Identifying where you sit right now can help you reflect on what goals and actions you want to take and how your work supports your well-being. 

 

 

Flourishing needs a global and micro approach

In the final chapter, Seligman talks about his grand aim. That, by 2051, 51% of the population of the world will be flourishing (under his definition.) Through evidence-based applied psychology, which is his life’s work, he is hoping that many sectors will take on board the principles of positive psychology. For this to work, it must be aided by 1:1 support, changes in the classroom, parenting, workforce, business and politics. Each person, parent, and policymaker needs to embed the PERMA principles in their processes! Can you start?

 

 

Writing this in 2023, I am cautiously hopeful that we can see this aim achieved. What do you think? Will this happen? You can read the other book reviews here, and join me in Creating Careers to Enjoy to discuss the monthly read-along. 

 

 

 

 

 

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