The 7 Secrets of True Happiness: Unveiling the Hidden Path to Joy
Is our definition of happiness correct? What is the secret of true happiness? It seems that wealth alone cannot increase our level of happiness. In fact, according to one report, some of the happiest places in the world, such as the Dominican Republic, Sri Lanka, and Tanzania, are non-Western developing countries not known for their wealth. Maybe something else is going on here. The people of these countries consider the value of family and social ties in a special place, different from some other countries.
In fact, human connection is the glue that holds our society and ourselves together. According to a recent study, London is the second unhappiest city in the world. While various researches such as the Global Mind Project and the Global Mental Health Initiative use different methodologies, happiness is still an important part of defining the quality of our lives.
But what if our definition of what makes life meaningful is completely different from what society has taught us? What if happiness is not what we imagine? Positive psychologist Stephanie Harrison claims that we have it all wrong. In her new book titled “The New Happiness: Understanding Happiness in a World that Gets It Wrong,” she says that many of the things we are told make us happy are pure lies; including perfection, financial success, and millions of followers on Instagram.
In fact, helping others is a proven path to what Harrison calls the true definition of fulfillment and happiness. Harrison advises readers to distance themselves from “old-fashioned happiness” that focuses on perfection and external glory. While they are nice to have, they should not be the basis of your intrinsic worth. In fact, according to Harrison, you are not defined by your successes or failures.
In fact, sharing our unique talents and gifts with the world will make us happy, regardless of the outcome. Besides, who would withhold his joy from the world? Happiness is like love. The more you give, the more you will receive.
Neuroscientist Nicole Vignola agrees. In her new work, “Rewire: Break the Cycle, Change Your Thoughts, and Create Lasting Change,” she explores the human mind and how to find happiness and fulfillment. For example, pursuing hobbies improves mood and reduces stress, building what HBR author Gaetano DiNardi calls “creative confidence.” Vignola offers powerful ways to improve our mental health by breaking the cycle of drama that often defines our lives. Reconnecting with yourself and others plays a huge role in boosting mental health.
Vivek Murthy, the head of the United States Health Organization, is known for his research on “loneliness” and published a book in 2020 called “Together.” It seems that our world continues to suffer from deep disconnection and greater dependence on technology in everyday life after the Corona pandemic. Maybe it’s time we all took up hobbies we’ve long since given up on.