Do You Have A Wellbeing Strategy? with Dr. Peggy Kern
Sep 3, 2021
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Dr. Peggy Kern, an associate professor and researcher in well-being science, reflects on the evolution of positive psychology and its practical implications for workplaces, schools, and communities. They discuss the importance of recognizing the evolving nature of science and the need for integration. They also explore the significance of assuming responsibility for well-being at work and the benefits of self-care. The podcast wraps up with gratitude, acknowledgements, and a message for continued growth.
Developing a well-being strategy requires a long-term perspective with a clear vision and participation from all stakeholders.
Caring for well-being involves embracing complexity, leveraging research and technology, promoting cooperation, and taking personal responsibility for well-being.
Deep dives
Moving beyond feel-good psychology
The field of positive psychology has evolved from a focus on simply feeling good to deeper exploration of what it means to thrive. This shift has led to a greater emphasis on understanding well-being, both individually and collectively, and recognizing that well-being is not just about individual happiness, but also about supporting the overall functioning and success of organizations and communities. This evolution has challenged the superficial and feel-good aspects of positive psychology and has encouraged a more nuanced understanding of well-being, including how to thrive despite struggle and the importance of considering the broader context in which well-being is cultivated.
The importance of a long-term perspective
A key aspect of developing a well-being strategy in workplaces, schools, and communities is adopting a long-term perspective. It is crucial to move beyond short-term fixes and consider the bigger picture of where we want to go in terms of supporting well-being. This involves setting a clear vision, involving all stakeholders in co-creating that vision, and aligning the values and mission of the organization or school with the well-being strategy. By taking a long-term perspective, organizations and schools can ensure that their efforts to support well-being are sustainable and comprehensive, addressing the needs of individuals and the collective.
Embracing complexity and simplicity
Caring for well-being requires embracing the complexity of the world we live in while also finding simple and actionable ways to make a positive impact. This involves recognizing the ever-evolving nature of scientific research and using it as a starting point rather than seeking definitive answers. It also means leveraging technology to enhance well-being without being controlled by it. In addition, organizations and schools must value and support the well-being of every individual, moving away from competition and embracing cooperation. Breaking down silos and promoting inclusion and equity are also crucial aspects of nurturing well-being in workplaces, schools, and communities.
Taking responsibility for well-being
A key insight in fostering well-being is the importance of individuals taking responsibility for their own well-being. This involves recognizing that personal well-being contributes to the well-being of others and the broader community. Simultaneously, organizations, schools, and communities should create environments that support the well-being of all individuals, valuing them as the greatest resource. Taking responsibility for well-being also means acknowledging the complexities of mental health and illness, integrating strategies that support individuals' specific needs, and fostering a sense of intellectual humility to adapt and experiment with different approaches.
Dr. Peggy Kern is an associate professor at the Centre for Wellbeing Science within the University of Melbourne's Graduate School of Education. Originally trained in social personality and developmental psychology, Peggy's research focuses on understanding, measuring, and supporting wellbeing across the lifespan. She works with schools and workplaces to examine strategies for supporting wellbeing and bridging gaps between research and practice and has published three books, over 100 peer-reviewed articles and chapters, and most recently the wonderful and freely available Palgrave Handbook of Positive Education.
In this week's podcast - our very last one ever – we explore what we’ve learned from 250 episodes of Making Positive Psychology Work and the best of these insights can be used to support wellbeing strategies in workplaces, schools, and communities."
[03:55] - Peggy reflects on the evolution of the field of positive psychology and what it means practically for workplaces, for schools, for communities, when it comes to caring for our wellbeing.
[09:04] - Michelle shares her reflections on how the application of positive psychology has evolved in workplaces, schools, and communities in recent years.
[13:33] - Peggy explains why workplaces, schools, and communities are prioritizing the need for wellbeing strategies.
[15:26] - Peggy recommends some of the key factors workplaces, schools, and communities might want to include in their wellbeing strategies.
[19:47] - Michelle shares a case study of how large organizations pivot their wellbeing strategy to embrace thriving and struggle and what this has meant practically in terms of the changes they have made.
[26:02] - Peggy reflects on the importance of building wellbeing literacy and having a shared – non pathologized – language to talk about how we are feeling.
[29:47] - Michelle and Peggy reflect on how we can use the science of positive psychology wisely to help – rather than unintentionally harm – others.
[34:17] - Michelle explains how she positions the science of positive psychology to clients in an effort to acknowledge its limitations and do no harm.
[36:21] - Michelle shares new research on the benefits of combining wellbeing and mental health approaches in workplaces.
[38:42] - Peggy and Michelle reflect on what’s next for the field of positive psychology.
Thanks so much for joining me again this week. If you enjoyed this episode, please share it using the social media buttons you see at the bottom of this post.
You can also listen to all the episodes of Making Positive Psychology Work streamed directly to your smartphone or iPad through stitcher. No need for downloading or syncing.
Until next time, take care! Thank you, Peggy!
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