5 Steps to Happiness

Are you happy? What makes us happy? Can you cultivate happiness? These questions are difficult to answer, but psychologists like Martin Seligman from the University of Pennsylvania are trying a new approach to shed light on these questions. Psychology for most part of history has conce ed itself with the more negative states that the mind endures: anxiety, depression, neurosis, obsessions, paranoia, and delusions. Seligman believes that mental health should be more than the absence of mental illness. He, along with other psychologists, is looking at more accurate ways to test and gauge happiness in order to find new ways to promote happiness within us all. What makes people happy? Researcher David Lykken from the University of Minnesota believes by focusing on three components of contentment – pleasure, engagement and meaning – you can increase your happiness. For instance, savouring sensory experiences and enjoying what you are doing allows you to draw more satisfaction from the many things you do in one day. People who have a greater depth of involvement in their family, work, love life and hobbies also experience a greater deal of happiness. A comparison can be made with musicians and sports people who are very good at losing themselves in their pursuits. This is known as flow and is the feeling of complete engagement in a creative or playful activity. Five simple steps to a happier lifestyle These simple exercises can increase happiness of others and in turn yourself. They are practical and at least will have a short term effect on your levels of happiness! 1.Be thankful. Once a week, write down five things you are grateful for in your life - big or small. 2.Good deeds. No matter what it is, spontaneous or planned, simple or more complex, do something nice for as many people as you can in a day or week. 3.Spend time with people. A 2002 study found that 10% of students with the highest levels of happiness had solid relationships with their families and friends. Generally people are happier when they are around other people. 4.Write a letter. This can be to a mentor or someone who you believe has helped you at some point in your life. 5.Body. By looking after your body with proper rest, exercise and even laughter and smiling, your mood will improve in the short term. Be Dedicated! Now that you have a plan, in order to make this happiness last, there needs to be a renewal of commitment. Sonja Lyubomirsky believes this allows the strategies you employ to become habitual over time. Commitment, whether it be to see family members more often, or keep a “gratitude diary” is fundamental in order to achieve a happier lifestyle.