Hello, everyone! Today, I want to share with you my recent experience of a perfect work day that left me feeling fulfilled and content. Yesterday was one of those days when everything seemed to fall into place, and I couldn’t help but reflect on why it was so special.
I started my day by waking up earlier than usual and taking a walk with my dog. The sight of a beautiful deer on our path brought joy to both of us, creating a memorable moment. Following this, I engaged in a course with fellow coaches, ran a workshop on Conflict Management for junior doctors, and had meaningful interactions with my clients. The day continued with productive work on my new course, a refreshing dog walk with a friend, and a relaxing evening spent swimming and unwinding.
Reflecting on why yesterday was so fulfilling, I turned to Martin Seligman‘s PERMAH framework of well-being.
Let’s break it down:
Positive Emotions: Throughout the day, I noticed myself experiencing joy, gratitude, and optimism. Being present in the moment and appreciating the opportunities I have contributed to my overall sense of well-being.
Engagement: Engaging in activities that I love, such as spending time in nature, exercising, and teaching, kept me fully immersed and energized. Finding meaning in my work and relationships added depth to my experiences.
Relationships: Connecting with nature, my dog, and friends brought a sense of connection and fulfilment. Meaningful interactions with clients and contributing to causes I care about, like supporting women who have experienced domestic abuse, added purpose to my day.
Meaning : I am so unbelievably lucky that I find meaning in my work. If I can help to make the lives of doctors, teachers, headteachers who give so much to the others then I feel my role has purpose. I have been privileged to watch so many people make different choices that have led to better lived experiences through the process of coaching, and it never fails to surprise me how meaningful this is.
Accomplishments: Seeing tangible results from my efforts, whether in teaching, learning, or creating, gave me a sense of achievement and satisfaction. Productivity combined with meaning made my work fulfilling.
Health: Prioritizing physical activity, such as walking, swimming, and enjoying time outdoors, contributed to my overall well-being. Balancing mental stimulation with physical exercise created a holistic approach to self-care.
As we reflect on our own experiences, I encourage you to consider how the PERMAH framework can guide you towards a fuller, more fulfilling life.
- What positive emotions did you experience today?
- How did you engage in activities that brought you joy and meaning?
- In what ways did your relationships and accomplishments contribute to your well-being?
- how did you prioritize your health and self-care throughout the day?
By reflecting on these questions and incorporating the principles of PERMAH into our daily lives, we can create more moments of fulfilment, purpose, and well-being.
Here’s to living a fuller life each day!
