Happiness in 2014
Having spent today wishing people a “happy new year” has caused me to reflect upon the drivers of happiness. Research has shown that there is no correlation between wealth or possessions and happiness. The “New Economic Foundation” research for the government in the “Foresight project” produced 5 ways to encourage wellbeing and happiness. Just as we take our five portions of fruit and vegetables each day for our physical well being these are the five things we should take each day for our happiness and mental well being.
# Connect… Connecting with people around you, with family, friends, colleagues and neighbours. Invest time in developing these relationships will support and enrich every day.
# Be Active…. Go for a walk or run. Cycle. Play a game. Exercise makes you feel good. Find a physical activity that you enjoy and which suits you.
# Take Notice….. Be curious. Catch site of the beautiful. Remark on the unusual. Notice the changing seasons. Savour the moment. Be aware of the world around you and what you’re feeling. Reflect on your experiences and on what matters to you.
# Keep Learning……Try something new. Rediscover an old interest. Sign up for that course. Learn to play a musical instrument or how to cook your favourite meal. Learning new things will make you more confident as well as being fun.
#Give…. Do something nice for a friend or a stranger. Volunteer your time. Serve your community. Give financially to charity and learn about the causes you give to.
And so, as I wish you a Happy New Year I am wishing for that in 2014 you build strong connections with friends and family, have an active year, that you notice and stay inquisitive about the world in which you live, that you keep learning new things and skills and give generously of yourself and your resources to benefit others. Happy New Year.
Terry Huggins
1st January, 2014
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