Howto: make yourself happy

May 31st, 2006

Guess what is the most popular class in Harvard Univ? Hint, can it be “how to be rich”? Answer is: No, it is the class taught by Prof Tal Ben-Shahar called “how to be happy”. If you are interested on some common sense that can make yourself happy without drinking or using drugs, keep reading.

Well, my job is consultant, all I do everyday is to travel to places, meet people and solve problems, but a lot of the times I see unhappy faces, people are worried, concerned and upset on lots of things. Comparatively, I am a happy guy and in retrospect what makes me happy? it actually lined up quite well with the six tips for happiness that are offered by Prof Shahar’s class “Positive Physology”. If you want to see the video, click the class website.

1. Give yourself permission to be human. Accept not reject. When we accept emotions — such as fear, sadness, or anxiety — as natural, we are more likely to overcome them. Rejecting our emotions, positive or negative, leads to frustration and unhappiness.
2. Happiness lies at the intersection between pleasure and meaning. Whether at work or at home, the goal is to engage in activities that are both personally significant and enjoyable. When this is not feasible, make sure you have happiness boosters, moments throughout the week that provide you with both pleasure and meaning.
3. Keep in mind that happiness is mostly dependent on our state of mind, not on our status or the state of our bank account. Barring extreme circumstances, our level of well being is determined by what we choose to focus on (the full or the empty part of the glass) and by our interpretation of external events. For example, do we view failure as catastrophic, or do we see it as a learning opportunity?
4. Simplify! We are, generally, too busy, trying to squeeze in more and more activities into less and less time. Quantity influences quality, and we compromise on our happiness by trying to do too much.
5. Remember the mind-body connection. What we do — or don’t do — with our bodies influences our mind. Regular exercise, adequate sleep, and healthy eating habits lead to both physical and mental health.
6. Express gratitude, whenever possible. We too often take our lives for granted. Learn to appreciate and savor the wonderful things in life, from people to food, from nature to a smile.

I think the last one is very handy, spend a few minutes a day and write down the things that you are thankful, the list is not for others to read, but for you to appreciate.

Entry Filed under: Career development