Kahn spoke of Martin Seligman, PhD, as the father of positive psychology and author of Authentic Happiness. Seligman points out that “happiness and well-being are the desired outcomes of positive psychology.” For enhancing the past feelings of satisfaction, contentment and serenity, Seligman advises the practice of gratitude, forgiveness and forgetting past wrongs.

Positive emotions in the present include physical and higher pleasures, which can be enhanced by focused attention (savoring and mindfulness), and adequate spacing in order to avoid habituation. Positive emotions of the present also include gratification, which occurs after using one’s signature strengths in the successful accomplishment of challenging tasks. Another type of happiness occurs after experiencing the state of “flow.” This state happens when one becomes totally absorbed in a fascinating and complicated task, to the point where involvement is deep, control is evident, and one’s sense of self, consciousness, emotion and time all seem to vanish.

Positive emotions for the future include hope, optimism, trust and faith. In his book Learned Optimism, Seligman demonstrates that enhancing hope and optimism is something that can be learned. Pessimistic beliefs are characterized by being personal (“I am a failure”), pervasive (“I can’t do anything right”) and permanent (“This will never get better”). By effectively recognizing these pessimistic explanations, one can learn to question the supporting evidence and change to an optimistic viewpoint: (“I failed this test because I studied the wrong material. I have done many things right, and this exam result is just a temporary setback. I will ask my professor for help tomorrow.”) Using one’s strengths, values and virtues in the service of others adds meaning to life and further enhances positive emotions. These emotions, in turn, actually “broaden and build” our creative thinking and problem-solving skills.

So where do we begin in our journey to wellness? Kahn ended his presentation with the following nine pointers:

1. Start anywhere.

2. Pay attention to advice from SHS health provider if physical, mental, or emotional limitations exist.

3. Choose purposes based on strengths, values, and principles.

4. Build on strengths and positive events.

5. Work around your weaknesses.

6. Set achievable goals.

7. Attend SHS workshops and practice!

8. Pay attention to balance and positive outcomes.

9. Be generous in your expression of gratitude.

Stephanie Chang is a second-year medical student.