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Happiness is a choice
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Most spiritual writers relate that happiness, in itself, is impossible to directly attain. Rather, happiness is the byproduct of decisions and choices we make. In fact, one who continually strives to be happy will always be disappointed. The striving leads to discontent and feelings of failure when happiness is not manifest. Rather, happiness is a result of certain altitudinal and behavioral choices we can all make.
Shawn Achor, author of The Happiness Advantage, is considered a “happiness guru” and teaches a class on happiness at Harvard University. It is no surprise that his class in the most popular in the undergraduate curriculum. Shawn preaches that we can all be happier as a result of certain daily habits we can all adopt. Furthermore, he asserts success does not lead to happiness. Rather, happiness leads to success.
Suggestions leads to success
Here are his suggestions for a happier and more successful life:
Gratitude journal. Mr. Achor recommends we all create a gratitude journal and enter three new things to be grateful for each day. This practice shifts our focus on to what we have, rather than all we lack in our lives.
Meaningful experience journal. The attainment of meaning in our lives is a large determinant of happiness. He advises us to write about one meaningful experience in the past 24 hours. Spend at least 2 minutes and detail the significance of the event. This habit reminds us that our lives indeed make a difference.
Give thanks. We all receive blessings from others. Yet, we often forget to thank those who have helped us in our life’s journey. Mr. Achor suggests we email or text one person each day and simply thank them for the good they have rendered us. This exercise helps us focus on the “gift” that many have been on our lives. Furthermore, when we praise and bless others, we will receive the same in return.
Exercise daily for 15 minutes. Exercise increases feelings of well-being, diminishes stress and promotes health. More importantly, Mr. Achor conveys that when the regular practice of exercise starts to yield benefits, it slowly convinces our subconscious minds that my behavior matters. When we truly believe that our behavior translates to positive change, optimism increases.
Meditate daily. Studies have shown that as little as 2 minutes of focusing on one’s breath translates to increased feelings of well-being and diminished stress. Mr. Achor affirms the need for the daily practice of quieting one’s mind as a necessary step in the attainment of more peace and happiness.
Cut out negative noise. Our happiness is determined largely by what we listen to — both externally and internally. Mr. Achor notes that if we lessen just 5% of the negative noise in our lives, we will become happier. To lessen external “chatter,” perhaps we can listen less to all the daily news or not inundate ourselves with the dark headlines that permeate the newspaper. Instead, turn your attention to uplifting music or spiritual reading. For internal noise, it is important to recognize negative thinking and not devote energy or attention to it. Simply let negative thoughts pass by, return to the present moment and focus on something good.
Increase positive people in your life. Emotions are contagious and it is important to surround yourself with as many positive people as you can. We are also responsible for the energy we choose. Similarly, take note and become responsible for the energy you bring to others.
Happiness index
We all have our crosses to bear in life and we will all have our share of loss and disappointment. Yet, Shawn Achor provides a convincing argument (and has data to support it) that the choices we make on a daily basis will determine our happiness index.
The Happiness Advantage will lead to better relationships, enhanced patient care and greater career success.