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We all have a "baseline" of happiness in our lives, and research shows that the ups and downs of life (which we spend so much time trying to acquire and avoid, respectively) don't really impact that baseline very much. So the secret to happiness isn't arranging our externals appropriately so much as cultivating an inner joy. But how do we do that? Come along as we explore how to shift that baseline!
Here are this episodes’ Action Points:
Smile– Smiling is almost magical in its ability to change our own attitude (and it’s contagious!). Take a short-duration task and try smiling the whole time. How do you feel? How do those around you respond?
Invite Someone– Foster more human connection in your life by inviting a friend or three to tea, a campfire, a hike, etc. Human connection is a proven life enhancer!
The Gratitude Bowl– Fill a bowl with pieces of paper on which you’ve written all sorts of things in your life. People, objects, abilities — things both tangible and intangible. Then, once a day (or as often as you like!) pull one out and imagine that you no longer have that thing. What does it feel like to have lost it? And then reverse things and feel gratitude for having it.
Send us an email or visit rewildu.com and let us know what you thought of this episode! These podcasts are 100% supported by people like you! Keep them coming by becoming a patron through Paypal or Patreon at rewildu.com. Love to you all!
2 thoughts on “UYL Season 2, Episode 23, Change Your Happiness Baseline”
I agree with Rebecca, happiness isn’t always the correct response. Important to be honest with ourselves. I do also feel it’s important to not keep “moving the goal post” which is what you were touching on when talking about externals, I’ll be happy when I get this promotion, have a house, a car, a significant other. However, typically when something is achieved another “goal of happiness” arises so many people are continually moving their happiness instead of allowing themselves to be happy and content with what they do have. That isn’t to say that goals aren’t important but the shouldn’t be the criteria for what makes us happy. I have also found that thinking on things that I am grateful for (especially early in the day) really helps new improve my mood. In some instances I think on things that I don’t have anymore, like a lost loved one and try to be grateful that they were in my life.
Absolutely — we can get really good at shifting those goalposts! And the result can be a never-ending chase for more . . . more, instead of achieving goals and then soaking into gratitude for what we’ve achieved. Love that early morning gratitude — a staple in our family! =)
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