The Science of Happiness - Why Should You Care?

Mans desire to find happiness has been alive and kicking since the beginning of time. 

Unfortunately, for bizarre reasons I cannot wrap my head around, many in our society and organizations grossly underestimate the value this subject has on their lives and on achieving their goals.  

Allow me to start from the end.

Did you know that happier people are 31% more productive than their neutral counter parts? Let’s set aside for a brief second that feeling happy is a beautiful emotion that every human being desires. Happier equals… 31% more efficient and effective. If you manage people … this is huge!  Allow me to start from the end.

In this fascinating ted talk, chalked full of insight and humor, Shawn Archor reminds us all of how important ones’ happiness is for our communities, businesses, relationships, and overall satisfaction with life.  
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Now let me let you in on another little secret. 
Becoming happier is in everyone’s capacity, irrespective of your starting point.
In her fascinating book, The How of Happiness, Sonja Lyubomirsky Phd. shares the golden nugget.

First I’ll share the bad news:

50% of your happiness is governed by your genetic predisposition or as she defines it your set-point. I know - somewhat scary news, but don’t despair. I have good news to share.

10% of your happiness is governed by your circumstances. This is the one that seems to be the most difficult for people including myself to accept, but it’s true. We’ll chat more about his in another post. 
 
40%.... and this is the fantastic news. … is governed by Intentional Activity. 

Why should you be doing the happy dance now? 

You now hold the key to where the solutions lies.

40% is governed by:  What we do + How we think
40% is within our ability to control
40% = opportunities to increase or decrease our happiness
This does also means it takes effort & commitment – only you can make this choice.

If you choose to make the effort and commitment you will improve your sense of well-being and boost your happiness level. Which also means your creativity, your connections, and your effectiveness will also improve.

If you are on a path to learn more about How to become a happier human being, I encourage you to read this fabulous resource. 
THE HOW OF HAPPINESS:  A new approach to getting the life you want, by Sonja Lyubomirsky Phd. 

These are her recommendations based on years of research and empirical data. 

1.  Practicing Gratitude and Positive Thinking.

Happiness Activity 1.  Expressing Gratitude
Happiness Activity 2.  Cultivating Optimism
Happiness Activity 3.  Avoiding overthinking and Social Comparison

2.  Investing in Social Connections

Happiness Activity 4.  Practicing Acts of Kindness
Happiness Activity 5.  Nurturing Social Relationships

3.  Managing Stress, Hardship, and Trauma

Happiness Activity 6.  Developing Strategies for Coping
Happiness Activity 7.  Learning to Forgive

4.  Living in the Present

Happiness Activity 8.    Increasing Flow Experiences
Happiness Activity 9.    Savoring Life’s Joys – Mindfulness 
Happiness Activity 10.  Committing To Your Goals

5.  Taking Care of Your Body and Your Soul

Happiness Activity 11.  Practicing Religion and Spirituality
Happiness Activity 12.  Taking Care of Your Body (meditation)
Happiness Activity 12.  Take Care of Your Body (Physical Activity

I challenge you to find one Happiness Activity that appeals to you and for the next 21 days make the effort. Experiment and notice how you, your relationships, and your work are effected. If you have any questions along the way you know where to find me. 

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