Positive psychology for executives in the wake of AI

Purpose The purpose of this paper is to integrate positive psychology and artificial intelligence (AI) into leadership development by proposing a six-dimensional model for preparing executives to lead effectively in AI-intensive organizational environments. Design/methodology/approach Drawing on a conceptual synthesis of peer-reviewed literature published between 2000 and 2026, the authors develop the Positive Psychology for Executives (PPE) model − a six-sign, six-dimensional framework that integrates strengths-based development, self-awareness, high-quality connections and AI-supported decision-making. Sources were identified through searches of Business Source Complete, PsycINFO and Google Scholar using terms including positive organizational scholarship, strengths-based leadership, reflected best self, mindfulness-based leadership and AI-enabled leadership. Credibility, accuracy and relevance were the key criteria used to select sources that ultimately informed the model. The resulting framework is conceptual and propositional; the authors explicitly distinguish between established empirical findings and the model’s forward-looking propositions. Findings This paper translates PPE into pedagogical practices for management educators, including learning outcomes, classroom exercises and assessment strategies. Proposed linkages between PPE dimensions and organizational outcomes are framed as researchable propositions rather than established causal claims. Practical implications PPE offers a theoretically grounded, pedagogically actionable approach to preparing leaders to thrive in the social, emotional and ethical complexities of the AI era. Originality/value AI is reshaping executive work, organizational design and the competencies required for effective leadership. Yet, management education has not fully integrated the psychological, relational and developmental capacities that leaders need to navigate AI-intensive environments. This paper introduces the PPE model, a strengths-based framework grounded in Positive Organizational Scholarship, the Reflected Best Self-Exercise and contemporary research on AI-enabled leadership. The model addresses a gap in existing frameworks by explicitly coupling human-centered positive psychology constructs with the technological realities of AI-enabled organizations.