★ Based on cutting-edge research from Harvard University and other institutions, “Positive Psychology 2.0” is leading a new global trend in psychology!
★ Written by a medical doctor who integrates practices from multiple countries, this book offers a way of living without self-depletion for the “serious types” who overexert themselves.
★ Includes 8 psychological skills that can be learned and applied immediately, from breathing exercises to strength discovery, teaching you to coexist gently with negative emotions.
★ It does not force positivity nor deny vulnerability; instead, it proposes using “whether life is fulfilling” as a new standard for life, replacing “whether one is happy.”
★ English translation samples available.

The second wave of positive psychology, which values not only positive emotions but also negative emotions—“Positive Psychology 2.0”—is being advanced in research at Harvard University and other institutions and is gaining global attention.
This book, written by a medical doctor, aims to introduce this theory in an easy-to-understand manner to Japanese readers and provides simple, practical methods.

Following the lineage of “Positive Psychology 2.0,” the book “Imperfect, Yet Good Enough: Positive Psychology for Coexisting with Negativity” is designed for “serious and kind people.” It does not force you to be positive against your will but helps you live with a rich heart as your true self. In a stressful society, some people always think “I must do well” and “I cannot cause trouble for others,” pushing themselves hard until they become physically and mentally exhausted—this book aims to convey a perspective: there is no need for self-blame; learn to skillfully coexist with negative emotions.

Chapter 1 guides you to reexamine the pain of “working hard but not seeing results.”
Chapter 2 challenges the fixed notion that “negativity is harmful.”
Chapter 3 introduces eight practical techniques, including breathing methods and thought organization.
Chapter 4 suggests not forcing positivity but naturally cultivating an optimistic mindset through methods like “counting existing blessings” and “leveraging strengths.” Chapter 5 proposes using “whether life is fulfilling” rather than “whether one is happy” as a life standard, reexamining one’s life story. This book shows you that even with vulnerabilities and imperfections, everyone can live as themselves—this is a guide to finding small hopes.

Shinichiro Matsukuma

Medical Doctor, Certified Psychologist. Graduated from the doctoral program at Keio University Graduate School of Medicine. Specializes in positive psychology and solution-focused therapy. Currently serves as Representative Director of the General Incorporated Association Strengths Association, Special Assistant Professor at Keio University School of Medicine Department of Neuropsychiatry, Secretariat of the Japanese Association of Positive Psychology, Part-time Lecturer at Rikkyo University Global Education Center, and Senior Consultant at Gallup, Inc. in the United States. He is committed to strength-based psychological support and talent development, while actively promoting strength-oriented psychological education and teacher training in the Philippines. He was a finalist in the 6th International Positive Psychology Association Clinical Division Case Competition.