Following up on my previous blog about happiness being something we create rather than something that happens to the lucky ones, I'm excited to announce a new year-long project. Inspired by Sonja Lyubomirsky's book "The How of Happiness," I'll be exploring twelve scientifically-proven activities that can boost our happiness levels.
As Lyubomirsky explains, while circumstances like a new job, relationship, or dream house can temporarily increase our happiness, the gleam often wears off. True happiness, it seems, lies in our everyday activities and choices. As John Mason Good wisely noted, "Happiness consists in activity. It is a running stream, not a stagnant pool."
What is Gratitude?
While most of us think of gratitude as simply saying "thank you," it encompasses much more. Robert Emmons, a professor at the University of California Davis, describes gratitude as "a felt sense of wonder, thankfulness, and appreciation for life." It can manifest as:
Appreciating life's present moments
Looking at the bright side of things
Counting one's blessings
Savoring good moments
Not taking things for granted
Finding ways to cope with challenges
The Science Behind Gratitude
Research shows that grateful people tend to be:
Happier and more energetic
More hopeful and positive
Less anxious and depressed
Less lonely and envious
More helpful and forgiving
Less materialistic
Recent studies on gratitude exercises have demonstrated links to improved mental health, with participants reporting higher levels of appreciation, thankfulness, and happiness.
How Gratitude Enhances Happiness
Gratitude works its magic in several ways:
Helps us savor positive experiences
Strengthens self-worth and self-esteem
Provides tools for coping with stress and trauma
Encourages moral behavior
Builds stronger social bonds
Reduces unhealthy social comparisons
Counteracts negative emotions like greed and anger
Prevents hedonic adaptation (getting too used to good things)
Stay tuned for my next post this Monday, where I'll share specific gratitude exercises we can practice together this January!
Reference:
Lyubomirksy, Sonja (2007). The How of Happiness. A New Approach to Getting the Life You Want. Penguin Books