In today’s fast-paced and increasingly demanding world, maintaining one’s well-being has become a significant challenge. The constant hustle and pressure to keep up with both personal and professional responsibilities often leave individuals feeling drained and disconnected. Consequently, well-being workshops have gained considerable traction in recent years as people seek effective ways to restore balance in their lives.
One such initiative was organised on 6 August 2024, during the annual Psychology Day at IMU University – a special event where students, faculty, and psychology enthusiasts gather to celebrate the evolving field of psychology. This year’s event featured an engaging workshop, the PERMA workshop, led by Senior Psychology Lecturer Alex Cheang, who is known for his enthusiasm in the realm of Positive Psychology.
It is designed to help participants enhance their overall well-being by delving into the principles of Positive Psychology. The name of the workshop echoed the PERMA model, which stands for Positive Emotion, Engagement, Relationships, Meaning, and Accomplishment. Over the course of the two-hour session, participants were introduced to a variety of practical, easy-to-apply skills rooted in these concepts. The hands-on approach of the workshop allowed participants to connect theoretical knowledge with practical, real-life applications, making it both insightful and transformative.
Gratitude Journaling Exercise
The workshop began on a reflective note with a gratitude journaling exercise, where each participant was asked to list three positive things that had happened to them that day. This simple yet powerful exercise aimed to cultivate an intentional focus on positive daily events, encouraging participants to shift their mindset toward appreciation and positivity.
Research has shown that such gratitude practices can enhance emotional well-being by fostering a more optimistic outlook on life. By taking a few moments to acknowledge the good in our lives, we can train our minds to notice and savor positive experiences more frequently.
“Kindness Calendar” Activity
Following the journaling exercise, we engaged in a “Kindness Calendar” activity. This interactive task involved brainstorming and committing to simple acts of kindness that could be performed daily, such as complimenting a colleague, helping a neighbour, or simply smiling at strangers. The activity highlighted the ripple effect of kindness—not only does it positively impact those on the receiving end, but it also boosts the emotional well-being of the giver. Trainer Alex emphasized that cultivating a habit of kindness can lead to a deeper sense of connection and fulfilment in our social interactions.
Finding Enjoyment and Satisfaction in Our Work Lives
The next segment of the workshop focused on finding enjoyment and satisfaction in our work lives. We explored our personal strengths and identified tasks we naturally enjoy, aiming to align these with our daily responsibilities. By focusing on what energizes us, we can transform mundane tasks into sources of engagement and motivation.
Additionally, Alex underscored the importance of healthy relationships in enhancing well-being. He introduced us to the concept of “active constructive responding,” a communication technique that involves responding enthusiastically to someone’s good news, thereby fostering more meaningful interactions and strengthening bonds. This approach was a reminder of how crucial it is to listen actively and respond with genuine interest in our relationships, whether with friends, family, or colleagues.
Envisioning Our “Best Possible Self”
For participants who sometimes feel adrift in their personal or professional lives, the PERMA workshop offered a valuable exercise in envisioning our “best possible self.” This guided visualisation technique encouraged us to imagine our ideal future, reflecting on personal aspirations and setting clear, achievable goals.
As part of this discussion, we also explored the concept of a growth mindset – believing that abilities can be developed through dedication and effort – versus a fixed mindset, where individuals view their talents and intelligence as static traits. Understanding this difference can inspire individuals to embrace challenges, learn from setbacks, and persist in the face of difficulties.
Lastly, towards the end of the session, Trainer Alex emphasized the importance of physical health as a cornerstone of well-being. He reminded us that our physical health is intricately connected to our mental and emotional states. Simple practices such as regular exercise, getting enough sleep, and maintaining a balanced diet are crucial to sustaining a healthy, vibrant life.
In conclusion, the insights and reflections gained from the PERMA workshop provided me with a refreshed perspective on the importance of holistic well-being. Trainer Alex Cheang’s dynamic and engaging style, combined with his deep knowledge of Positive Psychology, inspired participants to harness the power of evidence-based techniques to enrich their lives.
This enriching experience serves as a valuable reminder that well-being is not a luxury but a necessity. By prioritising our mental and emotional health, we can better navigate life’s inevitable challenges, ultimately leading to a more fulfilling and meaningful existence.
Written by Florence Then Ru Xian
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