A few years ago, a social experiment in improving happiness was undertaken in the village of Slough, England. Social researchers used known cognitive and social methods to improve the happiness of Slough and it actually worked. Measurements taken before and after the experiment showed a demonstrable rise in individual and collective happiness for the people of Slough.

Here are the 10 easy steps that were used:

1. Plant something and nurture it
   
2. Count your blessings – at least five – at the end of each day
   
3. Take time to talk – have an hour-long conversation with a loved one each week
   
4. Phone a friend whom you have not spoken to for a while and arrange to meet up
   
5. Give yourself a treat every day and take the time to really enjoy it
   
6. Have a good laugh at least once a day
   
7. Get physical – exercise for half an hour three times a week
8. Smile at or say hello to a stranger at least once each day
9. Cut your TV viewing by half
10. Spread some kindness – do a good turn for someone every day

ACTION PLAN or COME ON GET HAPPY

Take one easy step and then add another every few days or perhaps have a 10 week plan: start with one step, add another the second week, etc., until you have all 10 steps in active daily use. You will actually be happier and so will your friends and those around you.

CHOOSE HAPPINESS

If we remember that knowledge of one’s ability to choose is empowering, then one is empowered to actively choose actions and activities that will bring happiness, gratitude, and optimism. These are core aspects of human wellness and they are easily nurtured and sustained.

Choose to practice happiness,  for wellness as individuals and in community.
@DoctorJames

Rather than being some nebulous idea, gratitude is a powerful aspect of both being and becoming more human. In the USA, we annually celebrate Thanksgiving as a feast with friends and family. On this day, it is customary for us to pause and be thankful. Setting aside a specially recognized national day of gratitude is a great idea; let us daily cultivate gratitude.

An Attitude of Gratitude

The idea of being grateful, of gratitude practiced daily, is one that is central to wellness and health, according to positive psychology. This emergent discipline of the general field of psychology focuses on virtues, strengths, and potentials of human growth and development. As an aspect of personhood, daily practicing gratitude is understood to foster peace of mind, higher quality interpersonal relationships, and a sense of prosperity, even in difficult circumstances.

Personal Application

• Choose to daily practice gratitude. Optimism will emerge and persist, for a better life for all and for the planet.
• Tell someone that you know something about them or something that they do for which you are thankful.
• Say “thank you” to someone whom you do not know for their civility or courtesy.
• Before sleeping, write down three things for which you give gratitude. Read them aloud to yourself.
• When facing a struggle or challenge, bring out your gratitude journal and read it aloud.

Here’s a thought:

Thank the gods for dirty dishes, they have a tale to tell.

While other folks go hungry, we’re eating very well.

With home and hearth and happiness, let’s not complain or fuss.

For by this stack of evidence, life’s very good to us.

May your day and your life be filled with the practice and benefits of gratitude.

@DoctorJames