I have long wondered what makes those really happy people I meet in life so damn happy. Then I stumbled upon some research the other day that confirmed my suspicions. They were just born that way! Apparently 50% of a person’s happiness is based on their genetic predisposition. A happiness set point. Those really happy people default into a good mood. It’s as genetic as their eye color.
For those of us who were not born so cheerful, or believe that we will finally achieve such a blissful state if only we can/will/get whatever, the studies get even more interesting. It seems that only 10% of general happiness is based on circumstances (assuming you’re not starving or in severe pain).
So what does this all mean? It means that there is not much you can do about your gene pool, and that the thing or the person you have been waiting for is not going to make much difference in the greater scheme of things. But, the remaining 40% is in your control! Just a 1-hour a week of gratitude, kindness, and positive self-acknowledgment can part the clouds in your world and make you feel and shine up to 40% brighter. It also has all kinds of health benefits that makes it a practice worth practicing. For more information check out the book recommendation below.
Thanks for being one of my readers. I feel better already.
Enjoy your week,
Dawn