At Coaching4Careers, we believe coaching is not just about achieving goals, it’s also about creating a fulfilling, sustainable life. At the 2025 C4C Confluence, Associate Sarah Alexander ran an engaging session on positive psychology, where she introduced the PERMA model. Developed by Dr Martin Seligman, a leading figure in the field, this framework supports our approach to wellbeing and performance. But what is PERMA, and how can it help you and your team live and work well?
What is the PERMA Model?
PERMA is an acronym for:
- P – Positive Emotion
Cultivating gratitude, joy and optimism, even during challenges, helps us build resilience and enhances our daily experience.
- E – Engagement
This refers to being fully absorbed in what we are doing, often referred to as ‘flow’. When we are engaged, we lose track of time and feel energised by our activities.
- R – Relationships
Meaningful connections with others are central to wellbeing. Positive relationships provide support, love, and a sense of belonging.
- M – Meaning
Having a sense of purpose and feeling part of something bigger than ourselves brings depth and direction to our lives.
- A – Accomplishment
Working towards and achieving goals gives us a sense of progress and mastery, enhancing confidence and satisfaction.
Why PERMA matters in coaching
Often, clients come to coaching seeking clarity, confidence or a sense of balance. The PERMA model enables us to take a holistic approach, looking beyond goals alone to assess what a flourishing life looks like for you.
For example:
- Are you experiencing enough moments of joy?
- Do you feel absorbed in activities that energise you?
- Are your relationships nurturing and supportive?
- Do you feel connected to a deeper sense of purpose?
- Are you recognising and celebrating your achievements?
Using PERMA, we help you identify where your wellbeing may need attention and explore practical, realistic strategies to enhance these areas.
Applying PERMA in your life
You don’t need to make sweeping changes to benefit from PERMA. Small, intentional actions can have a significant impact:
- Positive emotion: keep a gratitude journal to notice and savour small moments of joy.
- Engagement: identify activities that help you lose track of time and schedule them regularly.
- Relationships: make time to connect with friends or colleagues, even if it’s a quick message or coffee.
- Meaning: reflect on your values and how your daily actions align with them.
- Accomplishment: set small, achievable goals and recognise your progress.
PERMA and workplace wellbeing
For teams and leaders, using the PERMA model can foster a culture of wellbeing that drives sustainable performance. Leaders who support these five elements help their teams feel valued, motivated, and engaged, which in turn supports retention, creativity, and collaboration.
Moving forward
The PERMA model reminds us that wellbeing is multi-faceted. It is not about being happy all the time but about nurturing the conditions that allow us to thrive, even during challenges.
If you’d like to explore these ideas further, Sarah shares more on the power of positive psychology in her book Transforming Performance at Work: The Power of Positive Psychology (Business in Mind) – an inspiring read for anyone looking to boost wellbeing and performance in both life and work.
Get in touch to find out more about our coaching services.