Why We Created Positively Torah

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The past couple of years have taken a toll on us all, not least on our tweens and teens. We believe that applying Positive Psychology together with Jewish wisdom and values is invaluable in helping them overcome challenges, so they can ultimately thrive and achieve their full potential.  We,  at Positively Torah, are dedicated to providing our learners with the tools to uncover, remember, and nurture what is best in each of us.

 

The Science Behind It 

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Positively Torah rests upon the advances of Martin Seligman and Christopher Peterson, professors of Positive Psychology, who developed the VIA classification of 24 character strengths. These classifications and the body of knowledge associated with them have been found to be cross-culturally reliable and supported by over 300 research articles.  

 

The VIA classification of 24 character strengths is a highly pragmatic and adaptable tool. Every single person has all 24 character strengths, but in a unique hierarchy. Our top strengths are the strengths that are easiest for us to use and leverage to navigate challenges and to promote personal growth and well-being. Knowing one’s top five character strengths, our “signature strengths”, and understanding them in all their nuances, allows us to nurture and leverage these strengths. 

 

Knowing what these strengths are is a gift we give our learners, an unshakeable foundation on which to build and thrive. Studies show that the main reason most people do not leverage their top strengths is because they do not know which ones they are. Positively Torah propels us to gain a deeper understanding of our own and others’ character strengths, our very own superpowers.  

 

Combining Torah with Positive Psychology to Help Learners Flourish

 

Looking at these strengths through a Jewish Lens accentuates the impact by adding meaning, rituals, and values to catalyze those habits. Torah study, in which Jewish values are inextricably woven, is a powerful vehicle to learn about ourselves and the world at large. Empowering our students to discover what is best about them and embedding that with Jewish values expands the possibilities of who they can be, and enables our learners to flourish.  

 

We, at Positively Torah, are determined to provide the tools to foster these superpowers in our learners and help them to be more confident, more resilient, and ultimately apply what they have learned to make a positive difference in the world. 

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Learn More (VIA Institute, Seligman, Lubymirsky-The How of Happiness, Podcasts Laurie Santos…)