Latest news with #contentment
Yahoo
08-08-2025
- General
- Yahoo
Yes, Money Buys Happiness — If You Spend It on These Specific Things
Your odds of being more content can be boosted with the right spending. Show me a person who thinks money can't buy happiness, and I'll show you someone who has never been completely broke. Ask the man who is up to his gills with debt and child-support payments, or the single mother who is struggling and on food stamps, hitting dead end after dead end. They'll have strong opinions on this subject. Money can buy happiness — but only in some cases. Here are 5 things to focus your spending on if you care about being happier. 1. Cutting off time leeches I took pride in mowing and caring for my own lawn. I was the only person in my neighborhood who did it. Then, after a few years, lawn work morphed from meditative exercise to burdensome chore. I live in Florida and it's hot. I had minimal free time. My neighbors had amazing lawns so there was a standard to uphold. I'd groan, 'God damn it. I have to mow this lawn again. I'm looking like the white trash neighbor.' I've finally given in and outsourced lawn care at my new home. It's amazing. It saves me from getting dirty, smelling like gasoline, having to take another shower, getting on my hands and knees, pulling weeds. I'm not rich. But the first thing most wealthy people do is buy their time back. Free time is powerfully correlated to health and overall wellbeing. If you aren't enamored with fancy toys and objects, make it a goal to buy off a chore. Rather than save up for an over-priced luxury car, have someone clean your house once or twice a month, or get a babysitter to allow for dates. One study by Dr. Ashley V. Whillans at Princeton University that adults who spent their money on time-saving purchases reported greater levels of happiness versus those who spent it on objects. My spouse and I have a cleaning lady who comes twice a month. No, I wasn't initially thrilled to be spending the money on this as I'm quite frugal. But I'll concede that it has been a big boost to our relationship and the stress of us pointing fingers over the state of our home. It feels like a needed gift we give ourselves. 2. The U-shaped curve of happy and sad people On average, our happiness drops after age 21 and continues to lag until we retire (or get close to it). Our dissatisfaction is driven by the demands of careers and child-rearing. Unsurprisingly, this statistic impacts women the most. It reminds me of this funny people-watching trend in my old neighborhood. There was this beautiful green park with a nice playground on it, where I rarely saw dads with their kids during the weekdays. Yet on Sundays, there were dozens of dads. Most of them looked bored, pushing their kid on the swing while checking their phone. It was clear that this was their 'one day' to watch the kids. I could envision the fights with their wives that eventually landed them in this park. They were getting a taste of what it was like to be a parent. And good on them. They were smart men: A woman's happiness is more important than her husband's when it comes to lasting marriages. Women are more likely to file for divorce first. Men will stay unhappy for longer before filing. Money is the leading cause of stress in relationships. I know this intimately because it was a factor in my own divorce. When there are financial problems, it drips into everything: how you use your time, where you are working, your discretionary spending. Every minor life decision carries the potential for a battle royale in your living room. It may seem obvious, but this is why you should use your money to immediately reduce financial pressures and stressors. Consider shopping smarter, packing your lunch, and alleviating the sources of those fights. 3. Altruistic happiness If by chance you find yourself extremely, filthy rich, one of the low-hanging fruits of contentment and joy you can buy is, ironically, giving your money away. Researchers found that people who are emotionally and behaviorally compassionate, live longer, happier lives, conditionally that their altruism didn't overwhelm them. Sure, philanthropists put their name all over stadiums and buildings to fulfill their ego. But they are doing something that also brings them immense satisfaction. Even if you don't have mounds of cash to give, small acts of generosity provide a 'helper's high'. For example, I volunteered as a coach for the Special Olympics swimming team and those memories live on inside me. I smile anytime I think back on those moments. 4. The issues you can't resolve One of my friends was going through depression and recently decided he needed to see a therapist. Unfortunately, due to the abyssal nature of the United States' healthcare system, it wasn't covered under his insurance. Fortunately, he is successful and can pay out of pocket. He considers it an investment in himself. I can confirm there has been a marked change in how he's doing. Just having someone to talk to about his problems and putting in weekly 'assignment work' on his mental health made huge strides. He's a different person. If you have the money or the insurance coverage, don't be afraid of pursuing mental health treatment, and speaking with a therapist. It doesn't always involve medication. It's incredible what having a professional, who is a fantastic listener and advisor can do. 5. Kick everyone off of your paycheck Years ago, someone smarter than me said, 'Whatever you do, get rid of all debt. It clears the runway for you to live and thrive." He wasn't talking about ridiculous credit card debt. He meant the basic stuff: car payments, mortgages, student loans. Paying interest is the equivalent of burning money. He said, 'Get their name off of your paycheck.' I invested aggressively and saved, and finally achieved that goal. I don't owe on my house or car. Everything I own is mine. I cannot plead with you enough: Live below your means and get rid of your obligations. It's the most freeing feeling I've ever had. There's no worrying. I can buy stuff and invest and do things I want to do. Studies have proven that debt negatively impacts happiness. I can remember having only $100 and having to get to the following Tuesday with that money. It was awful. This life is so much better. The goal of removing debt made me more motivated at my job too. You don't need to be a billionaire to be happy. Yet if you step back and realize that money is that singular, magical thing that can provide you with shelter, food, freedom, power, it shouldn't surprise you that it confers happiness. Money can help you be happy. But the endless pursuit of money will make you miserable. Recap for memory: 5 ways money buys happiness It reduces financial stress in relationships. You won't feel like you are negotiating every minor purchase. Buy back your time. Outsource chores. Indulge hobbies and get more quality time with your partner. Give away your money to those who need it. Or donate your time. Get mental health treatment or counseling. Get debt-free and kick everyone off your paycheck. Money can't buy happiness but it can delete things that cause sadness.
Yahoo
01-08-2025
- General
- Yahoo
15 Signs Someone Is Incapable Of Being Happy
Happiness is something many people strive for, yet it remains elusive for some. It's not about having a perfect life, but rather finding contentment in everyday moments. If you've ever wondered why some people seem perpetually unhappy, there might be deeper reasons at play. Here are 15 signs that someone might be unable to find happiness, and maybe you'll see some familiar behaviors or patterns. Remember, understanding these signs isn't about judging people, but about recognizing patterns that can help guide towards positive changes. 1. They Constantly Focus On The Negative Some people have a knack for finding the cloud in every silver lining. They dive headfirst into negativity, unable to appreciate the positive aspects of life. This behavior can stem from a natural inclination towards pessimism or negative thinking patterns. Dr. Martin Seligman, a renowned psychologist, emphasizes that a consistent negative outlook may be linked to learned helplessness, where people believe they have no control over their circumstances. Over time, this mindset can become a self-fulfilling prophecy, where expecting bad things to happen makes it harder to recognize or enjoy the good. When negativity becomes the default setting, it impacts not just their mood but their relationships and opportunities. People who focus on the negative may inadvertently push others away, finding themselves isolated and reinforcing their unhappiness. Their conversations often revolve around complaints, and they may dismiss any attempts to view situations positively. This constant negativity can become exhausting, making it hard for them to maintain fulfilling connections. It's crucial to recognize that this behavior can be changed with effort and awareness. 2. They Avoid Emotional Vulnerability The fear of opening up emotionally can be a significant barrier to happiness. People who avoid vulnerability often do so out of fear of rejection or judgment. They may believe that expressing emotions is a sign of weakness or that others will not respond positively. This fear creates a barrier that prevents them from forming deep and meaningful relationships, which are vital for happiness. By avoiding vulnerability, they miss out on the support and understanding that comes from sharing emotions with others. Not only do they keep emotions bottled up, but they may also struggle to understand their feelings. This lack of emotional insight can lead to confusion and frustration, making it hard to identify what truly brings joy. The reluctance to delve into their emotions means they miss the opportunity to process and move past negative experiences. Over time, this can lead to a buildup of unresolved emotions that weigh heavily on their overall mood. Encouraging emotional vulnerability can be a crucial step towards achieving genuine happiness and contentment. 3. They Always Compares Themselves To Others In a world driven by social media, it's easy to fall into the trap of comparison. People who constantly measure their worth against others often feel inadequate and dissatisfied with their own lives. This behavior is exacerbated by platforms like Instagram and Facebook, where everyone's life appears perfect. Research by Dr. Ethan Kross at the University of Michigan highlights how excessive social media use can lead to feelings of envy and a decrease in life satisfaction. Instead of focusing on their journey, they get caught up in others' highlight reels, which can be detrimental to their self-esteem. Constant comparisons can lead to a never-ending cycle of self-criticism and feelings of inadequacy. When people fixate on what others have, they lose sight of their achievements and blessings. This mindset prevents them from appreciating their progress and can make it difficult to set realistic personal goals. By constantly looking outward, they miss the opportunity to find contentment in their circumstances. Breaking free from this cycle involves cultivating gratitude and focusing on personal growth instead of external validation. 4. They Resist Change And Growth Happiness often requires a willingness to change and grow, but some people resist this process. They cling to routines and familiar patterns, even if they're not particularly fulfilling. This resistance can stem from fear of the unknown or discomfort with uncertainty. Change requires stepping out of comfort zones, and for some, the idea of doing so is overwhelming. They may convince themselves that their current situation is 'good enough,' even if it leaves them unsatisfied. Resisting change can lead to stagnation, where progress seems impossible. People who are unwilling to evolve may miss out on opportunities for personal development and enrichment. This mindset can also affect their relationships, as they may struggle to adapt to changes in others. Growth is an essential aspect of life, and those who refuse to embrace it may find themselves stuck in a cycle of dissatisfaction. Overcoming this resistance involves challenging fears and embracing the possibilities that change can bring. 5. They Chase Perfectionism, Not Happiness Perfectionism can be a significant barrier to happiness, as the pursuit of flawlessness is often unattainable. People who strive for perfection set unrealistic standards for themselves and others. This behavior can lead to chronic dissatisfaction, as nothing ever feels good enough. According to Dr. Brene Brown, a research professor at the University of Houston, perfectionism is often driven by a fear of judgment or failure, causing people to hide behind a façade of perfection. This constant pressure can leave them feeling exhausted and unfulfilled. Perfectionism doesn't just affect how they view themselves but also impacts their interactions with others. They may hold others to the same unattainable standards, leading to frustration and strained relationships. This mindset can create a fear of taking risks or trying new things, as they worry about not measuring up. To combat perfectionism, it's essential to focus on progress over perfection, embracing imperfections as part of the human experience. By letting go of the need for everything to be perfect, they open themselves up to genuine happiness. 6. They Hold Onto Grudges Forever Holding onto grudges can be a significant roadblock to happiness. People who struggle to forgive often find themselves weighed down by resentment and anger. This behavior keeps them tied to past grievances, making it difficult to move forward. By refusing to let go, they give power to those who have wronged them, allowing past events to dictate their present emotions. Grudges can cloud their perspective, making it hard to see the positive aspects of life. The inability to forgive doesn't just affect them but can also impact their relationships. Those who hold grudges may struggle to trust others or let new people into their lives. This mindset creates a barrier to forming meaningful connections, which are vital for happiness. Over time, the weight of grudges can lead to loneliness and isolation. Learning to forgive and let go can be liberating, paving the way for healthier relationships and a more fulfilling life. 7. They Have No Real Purpose Or Direction People who lack a sense of purpose often find it challenging to achieve happiness. Without clear goals or direction, life can feel aimless and unfulfilling. This absence of purpose can lead to a feeling of being stuck or lost, unsure of what steps to take next. Dr. Viktor Frankl, a renowned psychiatrist and Holocaust survivor, emphasized the importance of finding meaning in life as a pathway to true fulfillment. Without a sense of purpose, people may struggle to find motivation or joy in everyday activities. The lack of direction can also contribute to feelings of emptiness or dissatisfaction. People might go through the motions, but without a deeper sense of meaning, their actions can feel hollow. This can affect their work, relationships, and overall well-being, as they may lack the drive to pursue new opportunities. Finding purpose involves identifying passions and interests that bring joy and fulfillment. By aligning actions with personal values, people can create a more meaningful and satisfying life. 8. Their Fear Of Failure Keeps Them Up At Night Fear of failure is a common barrier to happiness, as it keeps people from pursuing their dreams. Those who fear failure often avoid taking risks or trying new things. They may worry about the judgment of others or the possibility of making mistakes. This fear can lead to a stagnant lifestyle, where opportunities for growth and success are missed. By constantly playing it safe, they limit their potential and hinder personal development. The fear of failure can also affect their self-esteem and confidence. People who avoid failure may struggle to believe in their abilities, leading to a cycle of self-doubt. This mindset can prevent them from setting ambitious goals or pursuing passions, as they fear falling short. Overcoming this fear involves reframing failure as a learning opportunity rather than a setback. By embracing mistakes as part of the journey, they can build resilience and find happiness in the process of growth. 9. They're Mean To Others And Themselves People who lack self-compassion often find it difficult to be happy, as they are their harshest critics. They might dwell on their mistakes or imperfections, struggling to forgive themselves. This self-criticism can lead to feelings of inadequacy and low self-esteem. Without self-compassion, it's challenging to practice self-care or prioritize well-being. They may feel undeserving of happiness, creating a barrier to finding joy. A lack of self-compassion can also impact their mental health, leading to increased stress and anxiety. These feelings can contribute to a negative self-image, making it harder to form positive relationships. People who struggle with self-compassion might also avoid seeking help or support, feeling they must handle everything on their own. Cultivating self-compassion involves treating oneself with kindness and understanding, acknowledging that everyone makes mistakes. By practicing self-care and self-love, they can open the door to greater happiness and fulfillment. 10. They Engage In Self-Sabotage Self-sabotage is a behavior where people undermine their success or happiness, often unconsciously. This can include procrastination, setting unrealistic goals, or engaging in harmful habits. Self-sabotage might stem from a fear of success or a belief that they don't deserve happiness. These behaviors can prevent them from achieving their goals, leading to frustration and disappointment. By getting in their own way, they limit their potential and hinder personal growth. Self-sabotage doesn't just affect their personal life but can also impact professional success. They may miss out on opportunities or struggle to advance in their career due to self-destructive behaviors. This cycle of self-sabotage can lead to feelings of helplessness and a belief that change is impossible. Recognizing these behaviors is the first step towards making positive changes. By challenging negative beliefs and setting realistic goals, they can break free from self-sabotage and find greater happiness. 11. They Struggle To Set Boundaries People who struggle with setting boundaries may find it difficult to achieve happiness. They might say yes to everything, even at their own expense, leading to burnout and resentment. This lack of boundaries can stem from a desire to please others or fear of confrontation. Without clear boundaries, they may feel overwhelmed and undervalued, as their needs are constantly sidelined. This can lead to feelings of being taken advantage of, impacting their mental and emotional well-being. On the flip side, some people might set overly rigid boundaries, isolating themselves and pushing others away. This can stem from a fear of vulnerability or past experiences where they've been hurt. Both extremes can hinder personal and relational fulfillment, making it challenging to find happiness. Healthy boundaries are crucial for maintaining balance and protecting one's well-being. By learning to set and communicate boundaries effectively, they can create healthier relationships and find greater happiness. 12. They Can't Move On From The Past Dwelling on past mistakes or experiences can prevent people from finding happiness in the present. Those who are stuck in the past often replay events, unable to let go or move forward. This behavior can be linked to unresolved emotions or a lack of closure. By focusing on the past, they miss opportunities for growth and happiness in the present. This mindset can lead to feelings of regret or sadness, clouding their ability to enjoy life. Being stuck in the past affects not just their mood but also their relationships. They might struggle to form meaningful connections, as they're preoccupied with previous experiences. This can create a barrier to trust and intimacy, preventing them from building fulfilling relationships. Letting go of the past involves processing emotions and finding closure, allowing space for new experiences. By embracing the present and focusing on the future, they can find greater happiness and fulfillment. 13. They Lack A Sense Of Gratitude Gratitude is a powerful tool for happiness, but those who lack it often struggle to find contentment. People who don't practice gratitude may focus on what they lack, rather than appreciating what they have. This mindset can lead to feelings of dissatisfaction and a constant desire for more. Without gratitude, it's challenging to find joy in everyday moments or recognize the blessings in life. This lack of appreciation can impact their relationships, as they may take others for granted. Cultivating gratitude involves shifting focus from scarcity to abundance, recognizing the positives in life. Those who practice gratitude often experience increased happiness and improved mental health. It can also enhance relationships, as expressing gratitude fosters connection and appreciation. By making gratitude a habit, people can change their perspective and find greater fulfillment. Embracing gratitude opens the door to a more positive and joyful life. 14. They're Overwhelmed By Stress Chronic stress can be a significant barrier to happiness, as it affects both mental and physical health. People who are constantly overwhelmed by stress might struggle to find joy or relaxation. This stress can stem from various sources, including work, relationships, or personal challenges. When stress becomes unmanageable, it can lead to burnout, anxiety, and depression. This overwhelming pressure makes it difficult to enjoy life's pleasures or find fulfillment. Managing stress involves identifying its sources and implementing coping strategies. People who prioritize stress management often experience improved well-being and greater happiness. This can include practices such as mindfulness, exercise, or seeking support from friends or professionals. By reducing stress, they can create space for joy and relaxation, improving their quality of life. Embracing a balanced lifestyle is key to overcoming stress and achieving happiness. 15. They Look For Validation In The Wrong Places Relying on external validation for happiness can be a never-ending cycle of dissatisfaction. People who seek approval from others often place their self-worth in external opinions. This behavior can lead to a lack of confidence, as they depend on others for validation. Without internal validation, it's challenging to find genuine happiness or self-acceptance. This constant need for approval can impact relationships, as it may come across as needy or insecure. True happiness comes from within, from self-acceptance and self-confidence. Cultivating internal validation involves recognizing personal worth and embracing authenticity. By focusing on self-love and self-compassion, people can reduce their reliance on external approval. This shift can lead to improved self-esteem and more fulfilling relationships. Embracing internal validation opens the door to greater happiness and contentment. Solve the daily Crossword
The National
08-07-2025
- Entertainment
- The National
Palestinian singer Lina Makoul gives Arabic pop new emotional language
How does one express contentment within Arabic pop music? The genre, shaped by grand emotional declarations of heartbreak, passion and longing, is often designed to overwhelm or uplift. But Palestinian singer Lina Makoul is reaching for more subtle ways of expressing the human condition. Her latest single, Radiya, which translates to 'being content", is a quiet provocation. Not a love song, nor an anthem of defiance, the track offers something that is heard less today – a moment of stillness. Set against the backdrop of the Gaza war, it is a song about survival, not through the chaos, but by finding an inner balance. 'Trying to find this balance without giving in or giving up is contentment,' Makoul tells The National. 'It is also about being grateful for the things that you are blessed with, such as a bed, a roof above your head, food in your fridge, having your loved ones next to you and not losing yourself.' It is something the US-born Makoul often considers herself, as she struggles with the enduring grief and destruction of her homeland. Radiya opens with a washed-out vocal loop, followed by a gleaming bass-synth line. Makoul takes stock of the perceived weight she carries – 'every little and big thing, I carry so much on my shoulders' – before the song pivots to a cool, measured chorus that simply declares: 'I am content.' It is a nuanced delivery that matches the subject. 'Usually, I make music that helps me go through what I go through, and this song kept going in my head all the time,' she says. 'Every time I felt like something wasn't working out for me, I would repeat it like a mantra: 'I'm content with whatever comes. I know I'm divinely protected.'' The idea of contentment is a rich vein in Arabic spiritual and literary thought. But what makes this song interesting is that the subject hasn't really been explored directly in Arabic pop music. The classics of Umm Kulthum and Abdel Halim Hafez are layered, often charting the extremes of the emotional scale – the ecstasy of falling in love, as well as gnawing heartbreak. But even in their more reflective ballads, such as Umm Kulthum's Fakkarouni or Hafez's Mawood, the notion of inner peace is at best implied. Makoul's decision to focus a song on contentment, not as a fleeting feeling but a chosen state of being, mines new lyrical territory she deems essential in addressing the world today. 'I missed having this kind of message growing up,' she says. 'I missed hearing it in my own language, in my own dialect. As a teenager, as a grown-up, I didn't have that emotional vocabulary in Arabic music. So now I feel like it's my responsibility to offer it.' These are not isolated gestures. Taken together, they point to a subtle but growing shift – particularly among Levantine artists operating outside major commercial circuits – towards emotional transparency in Arabic music. Jordanian-Palestinian rapper The Synaptik discussed ADHD and depression in his album Al Taman, while Lebanese band Adonis reflected on dislocation in their latest release Wedyan, and Palestinian singer and rapper Saint Levant navigated diaspora identity and longing in Deira. Makoul says it is vital that her peers use their work to explore these important emotional spaces. 'I believe that art shapes the consciousness,' she says. 'If you don't consume art, it's very easy for you to become a robot that just repeats what the system wants you to repeat. So I want to liberate the mind, the soul, the heart – that's my way of resisting.' This idea of reclaiming your emotional agency has long been central to Makoul's creative process. During the Covid-19 pandemic, she launched #Yom, a songwriting project that invited Palestinian teenagers to submit original texts through Instagram. Makoul set those submissions to music, turning everyday reflections into delicate pop songs. One entry, Biji Abali, shifted her perspective completely. The lyrics read: 'I feel like stopping time, so I can focus on what the universe has to offer. Take deep breaths and just be present.' Makoul says she was floored by the couplets from author Sherry Mwai when the submission arrived in her inbox. 'I opened that message during Covid, when everything had stopped, and I realised I wasn't even being present,' Makoul recalls. 'The girl who wrote it had just come back from a chemotherapy session. She was 23. And she saw my challenge on Instagram and decided to write me this. It completely rewired my brain. 'That experience changed how I write. It reminded me how powerful simple words can be and how presence is everything. Without realising it, I think Radiya started there. That was the first time I truly stopped to reflect. It stayed with me.' That moment, and the shift it triggered, echoes in Radiya, where the idea of presence becomes a form of strength. In an industry where Arab pop songs are seemingly more interested in big emotions, to explore a feeling as measured as contentment feels almost radical. 'We need more songs that represent how we really feel,' she says. 'Even love songs, where's the complexity? Where's the need to be loved, the confusion, the vulnerability? I feel like we're missing so much potential in reshaping the next generation.' If Radiya signals a quiet shift in Arabic pop's emotional vocabulary, Makoul's live performances have amplified that message on a global stage. She joined Saint Levant on tour, performing across North America and Europe to sold-out crowds. 'It was such a beautiful experience,' she says. 'Being outside of Palestine, seeing how people turned the concerts into something spiritual, almost like a protest, it recharged me in a way I can't explain. But then when I returned home, I felt it again: the rupture. The reality here is different. There's no infrastructure for music. We do everything ourselves – manage, direct, fund, book, promote.' That contrast, Makoul notes, is part of what fuels music she describes as 'the soul beneath the surface". It also means no longer being interested in streaming numbers, in viral campaigns, or charts. True contentment, or feeling 'radiya', now stems from creating work that feels honest. 'I just want to make sure my light keeps shining,' she says. 'And maybe if it does, it attracts other lights. And maybe together, we can make some of the darkness we are going through feel a little smaller.'
Yahoo
02-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
The #1 Unexpected Trick to Feeling Happy—Even When the Odds Are Stacked Against You
Parade aims to feature only the best products and services. If you buy something via one of our links, we may earn a commission. The #1 Unexpected Trick to Feeling Happy—Even When the Odds Are Stacked Against You originally appeared on Parade. Parade aims to feature only the best products and services. If you buy something via one of our links, we may earn a commission. These days, there's a lot of chatter about genuine contentment versus simply the appearance of happiness. "Instagram vs. reality" has even become a popular social media caption and theme, with some users poking fun at the curated aspect of the feeds we follow and post ourselves. For many of us, it can be difficult to truly feel happy when various aspects of our lives are challenging, and/or when we're unable to get something we really want—such as a clean bill of health, a new car, deeper relationships with friends, an updated wardrobe, more affordable childcare or any other desire that's currently out of reach for whatever instead of being honest about how we're feeling (whether it's rooted in not wanting to complain or trying to keep up appearances), inauthenticity or toxic positivity takes its place. However, true happiness is rooted in something deeper than your circumstances—even though our society might disagree."Our society has lied to us about what happiness is and how we should pursue it. That's the topic of my forthcoming book, New Happy," author and well-being expert Stephanie Harrison tells Happy: Getting Happiness Right in a World That's Got It Wrong shuts down common falsehoods about happiness—like having to be perfect, focusing on achievement and success, and doing it all solo. After a 10-year journey of studying positive psychology, Harrison is here to share one unexpected trick to feeling happy, as well as other top recommendations for habits that make a difference in true aims to feature only the best products and services. If you buy something via one of our links, we may earn a Ready for the happiness hack that Harrison swears by? "The best way to increase your own personal happiness is to help someone else to be happy!" she tells that this is the top trick? You're not alone. "It always surprises people when I share this advice, largely because of the way that our society has misled us as to the sources of happiness," Harrison shares. "I call this Old Happy: the messages that we receive about what we need to do and who we need to be in order to find happiness, as well as the culture we have built that enforces them." According to Harrison, these messages include: "You need to improve and perfect yourself." "You need to achieve more and more." "You need to be completely independent and do everything on your own." "Helping other people violates these Old Happy messages, and that's why it's surprising," she explains. "In fact, helping others is scientifically proven to benefit our well-being, it connects us to one another, and it's how we find a greater purpose in life."Related: "There are a lot of joyful moments in our day (of peace, of connection, of excitement and of beauty), but we often miss them," Harrison shares. "Make a note when something goes right and try to really allow any positive emotions to fill you up." "Old Happy culture teaches us that it's our end achievements that matter most for happiness, but what's far more important is that we acknowledge our daily efforts," explains Harrison. "If you respond in a new way, stand up for your boundaries, try something new or make progress towards a goal—celebrate it! It's also wonderful to do the same for others; we all need recognition for our hard work."Related: "Some studies have found that spending just fifteen minutes in nature can lower your cortisol levels," Harrison says. "Reconnecting to nature also helps us to rediscover our interconnectedness with others and the world around us." Up Next:Stephanie Harrison is the creator of the New Happy philosophy. Her work has been featured in publications such as CNBC, Fast Company, Forbes and Harvard Business Review. She is the founder of The New Happy, a company that helps individuals, companies and communities apply this philosophy in their lives. The New Happy's art, newsletter, podcast and programs reach millions of people around the world every month. She has a Master's Degree in positive psychology from the University of Pennsylvania. Previously, she was the Director of Learning at Thrive Global. @newhappyco @stephaniehson The #1 Unexpected Trick to Feeling Happy—Even When the Odds Are Stacked Against You first appeared on Parade on Jul 2, 2025 This story was originally reported by Parade on Jul 2, 2025, where it first appeared.
News.com.au
24-06-2025
- Sport
- News.com.au
Avoid Complacency. Seek Contentment.
'We're always striving for that next shiny object,' says Ashley Adamson, a three-time Emmy Award-winning sports broadcaster and entrepreneur. 'The way that I finally landed on contentment versus complacency is with gratitude.'
