4 minSociety
Psychologists Say Zest Can Be Learned and Linked to Better Mental Health
Zest, one of 24 universal character strengths, is strongly tied to mental well-being across countries and age groups, and psychologists say it can be deliberately cultivated through small daily actions.
Zest — the habit of approaching life with positive expectations, energy, and eagerness — is one of the character strengths most strongly linked to mental well-being, and psychologists say it can be deliberately developed rather than simply inherited.
The concept traces to the field of positive psychology pioneered by Christopher Peterson and Martin Seligman, whose 2004 book Character Strengths and Virtues identified 24 universal character strengths. Zest is one of them, described as a cultivated cheerfulness and joy rather than the jittery energy of too much caffeine or hyperarousal.
An analysis of data from 130 studies involving more than 275,000 people worldwide found that most character strengths were associated with better mental health. But zest was one of only two strengths — the other being hope — with the strongest relationship to mental well-being across countries and age groups. Zest is also linked to life satisfaction among children, adolescents, and adults.
The benefits extend into the workplace. In a study of nearly 10,000 employed adults, those who scored high on zest reported greater work satisfaction and were more likely to view their work as a calling. People who score high on measures of zest are also more likely to see their lives as meaningful.
Ryan Niemiec, a psychologist and chief science and education officer at the VIA Institute on Character, said the most effective way to build zest is through behavioral activation, one of the most proven strategies for depression. In practical terms, that means taking action to lift one's own energy — taking a step forward rather than waiting to feel motivated.
Niemiec recommends engaging every day in one healthy pleasure, one form of physical activity, and one action that creates a sense of accomplishment. Other intentional approaches include savoring pleasures, setting good intentions, and trying to view life as an adventure. A brisk 10-minute walk each morning, cardiovascular or strength-building exercise, yoga or Reiki, laughing with friends, and engaging in stimulating tasks can all help lift spirits.
The VIA Institute on Character offers activities, workbooks, videos, webinars, and courses — some free — on improving character strengths, including zest.
Researchers caution that cultivating zest can be harder for people dealing with physical illness and pain or unhealthy lifestyle behaviors. Those facing such circumstances may benefit from support from a mental health professional, a physician, or a fitness instructor.
The broader message is that mental health does not have to be approached only by focusing on what is wrong. Developing skills, traits, and perspectives such as zest can help people manage daily stressors and build more meaningful lives, even when the world feels filled with conflict and gloom. Psychologists say it is never too old to change, and zest is a worthwhile investment that may help people not only through challenging times but also to see beauty in their lives and workplaces.
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