The Science
Our work draws deeply from the Global Flourishing Study (GFS)—the most comprehensive, cross-cultural research initiative ever undertaken on human flourishing.
Conducted in partnership with leading institutions, including Harvard University, Baylor University, Gallup, and the Center for Open Science, the GFS interviewed over 200,000 people in over 22 countries over a five-year period. The findings show a wide range of well-being indicators, providing an unprecedented view into the factors that enable people and communities to flourish, or in other words “…live in a state in which all aspects of a person’s life are going well.” The WFO is adapting the GFS findings to define what it means to flourish at work.
Advancing Human Flourishing Globally
Flourishing goes beyond well-being or engagement. It is a whole-system condition in which people can perform, grow, connect, and feel fulfilled across all areas of life, making it a powerful predictor of resilience, innovation, and long-term organizational and societal success.
The GFS is a landmark study in human flourishing research. It builds on Martin Seligman’s PERMA model for well-being and positive psychology. The GFS Wave 1 results are the culmination of a five-year longitudinal study involving over 200,000 participants from 22 culturally and geographically diverse countries.
The Six Dimensions of Human Flourishing
Central to both the GFS and WFO’s approach is measuring flourishing across six domains[1][1] VanderWeele, T.J. (2017). On the promotion of human flourishing. Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, U.S.A., 31:8148-8156). These six domains were developed by Human Flourishing Program at Harvard University and are called the Secure Flourishing Index[2][2] Harvard Human Flourishing Program. (n.d.). Our Flourishing Measure. Harvard University. Retrieved October 27, 2025, from https://hfh.fas.harvard.edu/measuring-flourishing. We need all six, together, to experience a life well lived.
WFO’s Adaptation of the Secure Flourishing Index to the Workplace.
Adapted by the WFO from The Global Flourishing Study: What contributes to a life well-lived?. p6.
1. Happiness and Life Satisfaction
Overall sense of contentment, joy, and satisfaction with life.
2. Physical and Mental Health
Well-being of the body and mind, including both physical health and psychological resilience.
3. Meaning and Purpose
The sense that life is purposeful, significant, and directed toward valued goals.
4. Character and Virtue
Living according to moral and ethical principles, such as honesty, kindness, and integrity.
5. Close Social Relationships
The presence of supportive, loving, and trusting relationships with family, friends, and community.
6. Financial and Material Stability
Having the resources and security needed to support life and pursue aspirations.