| The happiness formula | | Print | |
| Written by Claire Hall |
|
2010 is a time of abundance, unlimited technological advances and additionally a time of exuberant wealth (despite the GFC). Yet amongst all these positive attributes, how can we still find ourselves feeling empty and craving something more? International research has shown that if you were born after WWII rather then before it, you are ten times more likely to feel depressed. Additionally, we are much more affluent today then in the 1950's but people report the same amount of happiness today as they did back then. It seems we are in a state of happiness confusion. Interestingly, a new ‘condition' called ‘affluenza' has emerged in the States. It affects the super-rich, symptoms include never knowing whether people like you for who you are or for your money or of having no need for structure, purpose or motivation in their life. Sadly it's not just the super-rich who can suffer from unhappiness, we are all susceptible at any point of our life. Enter Dr Martin Seligman to the rescue! He is the leading spokesperson on Positive Psychology and Happiness. His research has demonstrated that it is possible to be happier - to feel more satisfied, to be more engaged with life, find more meaning, have higher hopes, and probably even laugh and smile more, regardless of one's circumstances. His findings have lead to new breed of positive psychologists. They believe their work will make the world a happier place, in the way that parallels clinical psychologists who, they believe, having made the world a less unhappy place. Here is the foundation of Dr Seligman's work: ‘The Happiness Formula': H = S + C + V H= enduring level of Happiness (overall happiness not momentary eg eating chocolate) Fundamentally, Seligman maintains happiness is delivered through focusing on the key areas of your life: satisfaction from your PAST, optimism about you FUTURE and happiness about the PRESENT. For most of us, to increase our level of happiness would create a positive ripple effect. Happy people have shown to be less self-focused, more sociable, creative, flexible and able to tolerate life's frustrations more easily. As well as being found to be more loving and forgiving. With a high sense of self worth, confidence and ability to appreciate the present, it seems happy people have a vast ability to live life to the full. So how can you bring greater happiness into your life? Here are some possible actions: 1) Happiness is a CHOICE, make your decision and start immediately; smile, look for the positives and start to cherish every special moment so you can build them into your daily life. 2) It is your RESPONSIBILITY to nurture your own happiness. Remove any obstacles which may get in the way; a stale relationship or monotony at work are not conducive to happy state. No one appreciates a moaner or a martyr; it is up to you to change your conditions 3) Disown ENVY, there will always be someone smarter, prettier, richer or cleverer then you but it is up to you to remind yourself of the great things in your life and to stop pouring precious energy into disempowering thoughts. Choose to manage your aspirations and ambitions and keep perspective. 4) Surround yourself with LIKE-MINDED PEOPLE; become infused with the energy and inspiration of common goals and values. Ensure you have a circle of friends to share the good times and the bad. 5) Ensure a healthy level of COMPASSION towards yourself before you share it with others. Are you your best friend? Happiness is your right and your responsibility. Own it, breathe it, live it. It is your choice. However you wish to increase the level of happiness in your life, the opportunity is here today and it is up to you seize the moment and SMILE! ‘People allow themselves to be only as happy
Claire Hall is a highly respected life coach and founder of Authentic Empowerment. Her practices encompasses coaching for individuals, groups and teams. For more information call +61 2 9953 4036 or visit www.authenticempowerment.com.au
|
