Positive Psychology and AI

I've been thinking more and more about the Appreciative Inquiry (AI) course I took last month. It's had a large impact on me, probably because it fits with my already established ways of thinking:

• One: We create the world we live in moment to moment.
• Two: If this premise is true (and I think it is), then let's spend our ki creating a positive world by noticing what is good.
• Three: There is a lot of good to notice.

I picked up a book at the library last week by Martin Seligman, a noted writer on Positive Psychology, called Authentic Happiness. He writes clearly about the research behind the benefits of focusing on what's good -- our positive emotions, strengths and virtues -- instead of what is wrong.

I have more to write on this topic and will in coming posts. I'd also love to know your thoughts on it. Do you tend to focus on what's good, noticing what you appreciate about a person, an accomplishment, about life, before you look for what you'd change? Does it come naturally? If not, how do you remind yourself?

In the meantime, I continue to experiment by appreciating all that I can in my life and by putting positive emotion into the world through my writing, singing, teaching and relationships. My latest endeavor is currently in the recording studio, a CD called Simple Gifts: Making the Most of Life's Ki Moments, comprising my favorite Ki Moments stories (from my email newsletter) along with songs like this little clip from "Simple Gifts."

There's still some polishing to do, which is great, because it's a lot of fun! I'll keep you posted.

Have a great and positive moment!

Judy Ringer