In the past two weeks we have looked at the happiness (formula) defined by positive psychologist Martin Seligman, where H [happiness] = S [your biological set point for feeling happy] + C [the conditions of your life] + V [the (voluntary) choices you make]. This week we look at the conditions in life that can improve our happiness quotient.
Step 1: Peace and quiet
Jonathon Haidt in his excellent book, 'The Happiness Hypothesis', notes that research shows that we can never (completely) adapt to new or chronic noise pollution. Loud noises trigger one of our most primitive fear responses [the other is the fear of falling] and we can never fully (relax) if we are surrounded by intrusive noise. Noisy neighbours are one of the most emotive causes of domestic upset for a very good reason. It is (essential) to have some peace and quiet every day. If you are unfortunate enough to live somewhere noisy, persist with complaining to your local council. Additionally, try wearing (wax) earplugs to give you some respite. If you need your TV, radio or music up loud, wearing headphones demonstrates altruism to your neighbours, which will make you and them feel good.
Step 2: Relationships
This is the most important of all the (external) conditions that can improve your happiness quotient. Often our deepest sources of unhappiness are found in poor relationships with others. A colleague at work who bullies or dismisses us creates untold wretchedness. A cruelly conflictual relationship with a partner or (lover) leaves us feeling betrayed and abandoned. A relationship with our parents or children which is not based on compassionate, unconditional regard creates isolation and (misery). We never fully adapt to hostile relationships, they invidiously contaminate our wellbeing, squatting inside our minds as unresolved, destructive ruminations. When faced (with) such relationships, the most positive thing we can do is to either mend the relationship by confronting what is going wrong or learn to move on.
Step 3: Share
If you have discovered conditions or choices in life that have (significantly) improved your wellbeing, I would like to share them with readers. Passing (on) what works is essential to improve our own and the wellbeing of others.
Question)
1. How to get yourself in to a quiet and peaceful mood?
2. How important are relationships and sharing to our life ?