Happiness. People that know me understand that I like reading on a subject that is backed by research. As the author of this book, Sonja Lyubomirsky, wrote, “An avalanche of studies has shown that happy moods, no matter the source, lead people to be more productive, more likable, more active, more healthy, more friendly, more helpful, more resilient, and more creative”. Also, this topic is important to me for personal reasons.
Sonja starts by sharing 40% of our happiness level is within our power to control. 50% is determined by our own set point, 10% is determined by circumstance and the remaining 40% can be altered through intent
ional deliberate activity. Sonja writes about twelve happiness activities that have been researched and determined to raise an individual’s happiness level. As she discusses each activity, she provides examples of research that supports how or why this particular activity raises your happiness level. She shares that not all the twelve activities are suited for every person. She even has a test in her book that may help you determine which activities are best suited for you.
The twelve activities are as follows: 1. Expressing gratitude, 2. Cultivating optimism, 3. Avoiding overthinking and social comparison, 4. Practicing acts of kindness, 5. Nurturing relationships, 6. Developing strategies for coping, 7. Learning to forgive, 8. Increasing flow experiences, 9. Savoring life, 10. Committing to your goals, 11. Practicing religion and spirituality, and 12. Taking care of your body.
In the course of my life, I have come across happy and sad people or what can sometimes be referred to as positive and negative people respectively. Is there a formula for happiness? Outside of a medical condition, are there certain traits a person possesses that make them happier? BTW, there is a study in this book conducted around people with and without depression on the effects of medication and exercise. I won’t give away the results, but I think you will find them interesting.
This book helped me understand that while my life isn’t in my ideal place that I can still be happy because I am truly grateful for my family, friends, job, and life. I am spiritual. I do practice acts of kindness and I take care of my body. I am committed to my goals. It also helped me understand some opportunities that I have around improving my happiness level through cultivating optimism, not overthinking or social comparing, learning to forgive, and savoring life.
During this holiday season, take the time to be grateful by finding someone less fortunate then you and performing an act of kindness, attending church(personal choice), savor opening a gift, seeing christmas lights, smiling and laughing, eating a good meal, and being around friends and family. Practice forgiveness and don’t overthink or ruminate on anything negative. As you approach the new year, commit yourself to a goal not because someone else has something you want but because it is something you truly desire with passion. Hit the gym or just go for a walk or hike and work off that holiday feast. Take time to nurture your relationships.
God bless you all and Happy Holidays!
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