<p>People with positive affect seem to have great advantages in life. Goal achievement, the main cause of well-being for all organisms, seem to be a typical trait of these people. The purpose of this study was to examine (i) what influences positive affect, (ii) the relation between positive affect and goal achievement, and (iii) characteristics of individuals with positive and negative affect. Five individuals with self-rated positive affect and two with negative were interviewed. The responses were classified in fifteen themes. Results showed that positive and negative individuals differed regarding over life time personality type; level of energy, a secure childhood; the base of self-esteem, and attitude. Depending on attitude the informants considered themselves self-fulfilled or not. The factors determining positive affect is in agreement with Lyubomirsky´s theory of primary factors for chronic happiness level. In conclusion, primarily a secure childhood seem to have a significant impact on self-esteem and self-fulfilment, which is the core factor of well-being.</p>

People with positive affect seem to have great advantages in life. Goal achievement, the main cause of well-being for all organisms, seem to be a typical trait of these people. The purpose of this study was to examine (i) what influences positive affect, (ii) the relation between positive affect and goal achievement, and (iii) characteristics of individuals with positive and negative affect. Five individuals with self-rated positive affect and two with negative were interviewed. The responses were classified in fifteen themes. Results showed that positive and negative individuals differed regarding over life time personality type; level of energy, a secure childhood; the base of self-esteem, and attitude. Depending on attitude the informants considered themselves self-fulfilled or not. The factors determining positive affect is in agreement with Lyubomirsky´s theory of primary factors for chronic happiness level. In conclusion, primarily a secure childhood seem to have a significant impact on self-esteem and self-fulfilment, which is the core factor of well-being.