Connect you way to greater happiness

A Great Idea …

“If you begin today to improve and cultivate your relationships, you will reap the gift of positive emotions. In turn, the enhanced feelings of happiness will help you attract more and higher quality relationships, which will make you even happier, and so on.” (Sonja Lyubomirsky, leading research psychologist, in her book, The How of Happiness. p. 138)

In Other Words…

There are cycles that lead to misery and those that lead to happiness. Some people feel unhappy and tend to withdraw from other people. They are likely to get more unhappy and lonely. In contrast, spending time with good people can start a cycle that leads to happiness. Happiness draws more people. More people can bring more happiness. We can choose to descend into sadness and loneliness or climb toward happiness.

How This Applies to You…

Notice the people around you. How can you connect with them? Maybe you can start a lunch-time conversation with a co-worker. You can take a walk with a neighbor. You might take treats to relatives. If you’re not sure how to get the conversation rolling, simply ask them what has made them happy lately. The more practice you get interacting with others, the easier it will become and the happier you will feel.

To Find Out More…

 For an excellent (and free!) program on improving your personal well-being, check out The Personal Journey or Managing Stress at on the UAEX website.

For more in-depth reading we recommend The How of Happiness by Sonja Lyubomirsky or Authentic Happiness by Martin E.P. Seligman.

By: Ashley Terry and Ashley Henderson