Happiness is one of the most precious targets that humans struggle to achieve. In fact, all human goals in life can be translated into steps toward achieving happiness. Whether people wish for more money, better health, higher education or greater prestige, these goals ultimately serve the overarching aim of happiness. It’s the universal quest that drives us all.
Did you know that happiness is a skill that can be learned? According to psychologist Sonia Lyubomirsky, while genetics and environment play a role in our happiness, about 40 per cent of our happiness is within our personal control. This has led to the development of happiness courses, where techniques such as gratitude exercises, meditation and physical activity are taught to enhance well-being.
In these courses, students learn a variety of techniques designed to boost their happiness levels. One such exercise is the ‘three good things’ practice, where individuals reflect on three positive events or experiences from their day. This simple exercise helps shift focus away from negativity and cultivates gratitude for the good things in life. Another technique is the ‘inner smile’, where individuals practise smiling inwardly to themselves, even in moments of stress or difficulty. This practice has been shown to reduce feelings of anxiety and increase overall well-being.
Meditation techniques are also commonly taught in happiness courses, as they have been found to have numerous benefits for mental health. Mindfulness meditation, in particular, helps individuals become more aware of their thoughts and emotions, allowing them to respond to challenges with greater clarity and composure. Physical exercise is another key component of happiness courses, as regular activity has been shown to release endorphins, the body’s natural feel-good chemicals, leading to improved mood and overall well-being.
But are these happiness courses effective in the long run? In a ground-breaking study, researchers from the University of Bristol discovered that while students initially reported increased mental health and happiness levels after completing the course, about half of them lost these benefits over time. However, those who continued to practise happiness exercises regularly were able to sustain their elevated well-being.
Participating in happiness courses can be a transformative experience, empowering individuals to take control of their own happiness and well-being. By learning and practising happiness skills, individuals can cultivate a greater sense of fulfilment and joy in their lives, leading to improved overall quality of life. As the saying goes, “Happiness is not something ready-made. It comes from your own actions.”
So, let’s take action, one happiness exercise at a time, and create a brighter, happier future for ourselves and those around us. Think about it: life throws us curveballs left, right and centre. From traffic jams to unexpected work deadlines, it’s easy to get bogged down by the daily grind. But what if we approached these challenges with a sprinkle of humour? Suddenly, that gridlocked commute becomes a chance to practise your stand-up routine, and that looming deadline becomes a hilarious tale for your next happy hour. And remember, happiness isn’t about being happy all the time – it’s about finding joy in the little moments, even when life serves up a steaming pile of lemons.
The author is a postdoctoral researcher at Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland.
(ammar.shakr@gmail.com)