Learning optimism

I recently listened to an interview with the American psychologist Martin Seligman on the Happiness Lab podcast. He is instrumental in the foundation and the development of Positive Psychology with some really sound science behind it. His research is vast and his findings have influenced many organisations, including the U.S army. According to Seligman, for the average person, optimism can be learned and practiced in our day to day lives. It can become part of a routine and a way of thinking.

There are many ways of practicing optimism but the most striking piece of advice from Seligman was that if we are feeling a bit off and need a pick me up, one of the most effective things that works, is to do something for someone else! It gets us out of our own thinking about a problem or situation and focuses our attention on someone else. I like this idea. It is a concrete measurable way to practice being more optimistic. However, sometimes when people hurt us and let us down it can be hard to see the bright side or want to do something nice for someone else. Yet according to Seligman, making connections with others and reaching out can help us be happier and more optimistic in our lives. I have an interest in trying to navigate, connect and find tools that help me and others see the positive in life. Jigsee is my attempt to add a little bit of fun to that! There are some new and exciting Jigsee products coming soon so watch this space!