Recent research conducted by Jolanta Burke, an Associate Professor at the RCSI University of Medicine and Health Sciences, highlights a significant shift in understanding how professionals in positive psychology maintain their own wellbeing. While traditional wellbeing programmes emphasize structured activities for mental health improvement, Burke’s study found that many experts do not follow these same routines in their personal lives.
Burke interviewed 22 experts in positive psychology, many with over a decade of experience, who regularly recommend various wellbeing activities to clients and loved ones. These activities include practices like “gratitude journaling” and performing acts of kindness. However, the study revealed that these experts do not consistently engage in these practices themselves. Instead, they often resort to them only during challenging times when they feel the need for a boost in wellbeing.
Exploring the Meliotropic Wellbeing Mindset
The research introduced the concept of a “meliotropic wellbeing mindset,” a term derived from the Latin word “melior,” meaning better, and the Greek word “tropism,” referring to movement towards something. This mindset emphasizes a flexible approach to wellbeing, where experts do not view it as a series of tasks to complete but rather as an integral part of their daily lives.
For these psychologists, wellbeing is less about actively chasing happiness and more about embracing the ups and downs of life. They accept that bad days are a natural part of existence and do not feel compelled to enforce positivity during those times. Instead of making drastic lifestyle changes, they incorporate meaningful activities into their everyday routines, such as reading, volunteering, cooking, or practicing yoga, as a reflection of their identities.
Participants in the study reported that these activities contribute to a sense of balance and fulfillment. By prioritizing self-care, including adequate sleep and nourishing meals, these experts maintain a holistic approach to their wellbeing. They also recognize the importance of their social environment and are proactive in addressing negative influences, whether from work or personal relationships.
Implications for Wellbeing Initiatives
The findings from Burke’s research raise important questions about the effectiveness of current wellbeing programmes. Despite the growing popularity of apps and corporate wellness initiatives, the actual impact of these efforts often remains modest. Some reports even suggest that certain programmes might have negative effects on participants.
Burke’s study indicates that the varied effectiveness of these programmes could stem from the discrepancy between recommended practices and the lived experiences of those who advocate for them. It highlights an urgent need for positive psychology researchers to reassess their strategies. Instead of promoting lengthy programmes or the relentless pursuit of happiness, a focus on understanding the longer-term effects of wellbeing practices may yield better results.
For individuals seeking to enhance their wellbeing, Burke’s research serves as a vital reminder: it is not necessary to continuously “work on oneself” or to chase after happiness. Experts in positive psychology often find that by cultivating a mindset that aligns with their values, they can achieve a sense of contentment and purpose in their lives. This approach encourages a gradual movement towards what makes life worthwhile, allowing each person to engage in practices that resonate with their authentic selves.
In essence, the shift in mindset proposed by Burke and her colleagues is one that everyone can adopt, steering away from the pressure of constant positivity toward a more nuanced understanding of what it means to live well.
