Calm Quote by Martin Seligman
“Positive emotion can be about the past, the present, or the future. The positive emotions about the future include optimism, hope, faith, and trust. Those about the present include joy, ecstasy, calm, zest, ebullience, pleasure, and (most importantly) flow; these emotions are what most people usually mean when they casually-but much too narrowly-talk about "happiness." The positive emotions about the past include satisfaction, contentment, fulfillment, pride, and serenity.”
About This Quote
Source Book: Authentic Happiness by Martin Seligman, 2002
Positive emotions span time: future optimism, present joy/flow, past satisfaction, shaping well‑being.
In simple terms: Positive feelings differ by past, present, future.
Key Takeaway
Cultivate balanced emotions across time.
Themes
well‑being
emotion
psychology
Mood
hopeful
reflective
inspirational
Type
philosophical
motivational
When to use this quote
- therapy sessions
- coaching
- personal reflection
- goal setting
- mindfulness practice
Key Concepts
optimism
hope
joy
flow
satisfaction
pride
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you currently balance past, present, and future emotions?
- Which time‑focused emotion feels most missing?
A Different Perspective
Overemphasis on one time frame can neglect other emotional needs.
