What makes you happy? Buying that latest iPhone? That latest car? Getting 1000 Retweets? Happy relationships? Being at peace?
Well, each one of us have our own reasons to stay happy, but how about discovering the happiness algorithm? That is, a sure shot way to stay at peace even in the worst of the conditions.
Although you may not always be able to avoid difficult situations, you can modify the extent to which you can suffer by how you choose to respond to the situation.
This month’s theme is staying happy - something that humanity definitely needs to focus more on - expect a mix of high-level insights to practical, actionable tips.
Presenting the first instalment in this series, The Art of Happiness written by a psychiatrist, Dr. Cutler, based on interviews conducted with His Holiness the Dalai Lama. The book explores the science of emotion and how to cultivate happiness, even in the face of life’s challenges.
Sharing 5 AtomicIdeas from the book
Cultivate Kindness
Compassion is essential to leading a happy life. By cultivating kindness towards ourselves and others, we can build stronger relationships and create a more positive environment.
We should strive to be patient, understanding, and accepting of our own imperfections and those of others.
If you want others to be happy, practice compassion, If you want to be happy, practice compassion. -Dalai Lama XIV
What’s compassion? Compassion can be roughly defined in terms of a state of mind that is nonviolent, nonharming, and nonaggressive. It is a mental attitude based on the wish for others to be free of their suffering and is associated with a sense of commitment, responsibility, and respect towards others.
Find Meaning
Finding meaning in life is essential for cultivating happiness.We should ask ourselves what matters most to us and strive to live in alignment with our values.This means finding ways to contribute to society, serve others or simply enjoy the small things that make us happy each day.
A disciplined mind leads to happiness, and an undisciplined mind leads to suffering. -Dalai Lama XIV
Let Go
Letting go is an important part of living a happy life.We must accept that some things are beyond our control and be willing to let go of outcomes that don't work out as planned.
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