Happier

I recently received a request to write a post regarding happiness. This is something that I feel everyone can relate to, the battle of "finding happiness." We often ask the question, "How can I be happy or achieve happiness?" I think this is actually an impossible battle to complete. The real question we should be asking ourselves is "How can I become happier?"

I read a fabulous book by Tal Ben-Shaham, Ph.D. called Happier. It is based on a popular cause regarding the psychology and philosophy behind "happy." He compares 4 types of people and habits, the Rat Racer, the Hedonist, the Nihilist, and the ideology of happiness. To show the relation he shows the following model and compares each to a hamburger.

To give a basic explanation, here is what he writes about each (in simple terms)

Rat Race:

This is a person that is constantly seeking future benefit and sacrifices current detriment. This means that they are so focused living in and making decisions for the future that they give up a sense of content in the presence. (I think this relates to some source of anxiety)

Hedonism:

This is someone who focuses only on current benefit and has no thought of benefit in the future. They live only in the present moment and therefore become a slave to it. They indulge in "quick fixes" and don't think of long lasting fulfillment.

Nihilism:

This is someone who is chained to the past and does not seek things that will benefit their "now" or future. This is dangerous because they risk getting stuck in a place of never feeling hope or seeking self improvement. They give up on finding happiness and in a way play victim thinking there is nothing they can do. (I think this relates to some source of depression)

In simple terms, happiness can be found by seeking present and future benefit. That requires practicing balance. When making decisions or shifting your train of thought practice learning from the past, enjoying the present, and being conscious of the future.

I hope this is some food for thought and can inspire some self reflection or journal entry for you!

Again, I found this very interesting and recommend the book! It isn't the easiest read, but is super interesting and fun to reflect with.

Have a wonderful day!

xx

lans

#advice