Kindness, Empathy, Respect, Joy… Happiness!

Kindness, Empathy, Respect, Joy…  Happiness!

Again, as I drove on base yesterday, I was reminded how much I appreciate the genuine smile and greeting I get from a young Air Force Soldier each day.  It is a sign of respect and kindness.  It brings a smile to my face each and every day.  The interaction is brief, yet during that time, the soldier focuses on the person he or she is interacting with and there are no other distractions.  I wonder… what if we treated each and every person we encountered with the same respect and kindness?  If when we asked them a question we listened completely?  If we attempted to truly hear them with empathy?  Would they be more joyful?  Would the place we come to work at be… Happier?  I would like to think so!

I spent time with elementary students talking about happiness yesterday.  We explored the Six Sustainable Happiness Skills and brainstormed what in our lives brings us happiness.  It was a fun day of sharing, listening, dancing and coding.  I would even say it was Joyful. 

Today is the International Day of Happiness.  Take a moment to think about what makes you happy.  Then, ask yourself, what do you do to help make others happy.  Perhaps you and those you spend your days with could have a happier, fuller, more meaningful life when you practice the Six Sustainable Happiness Skills.

What I should know about Mindfulness

Live in the moment. Be fully present NOW. The past is over and the future hasn’t happened yet, so don’t worry so much about them. Mindfulness is being aware of your thoughts, feelings, and surroundings in the here and now. Be kind to yourself. Adopt a supportive stance toward yourself and others. When we practice mindfulness, we worry less and we open ourselves up to JOY!

Ways to practice Mindfulness

• Think about how you know when you’re being mindful. Talk to a friend about two ways you practice this skill.
• How can you do more to pay attention to the present moment without judgment? Think about two ways you can improve this happiness skill.
• Practice mindful breathing: https://ggia.berkeley.edu/practice/mindful_breathing
  
  

What I should know about Human Connection

We all want to feel loved, be comforted, and know that we belong. Strong relationships are critical to our well-being. Relationships with family, friends, and significant others, and social connection with peers are huge predictors of happiness in life. People with close bonds are better able to overcome life’s challenges and are less likely to experience depression, low self-esteem, or health problems.

Ways to practice Human Connection

• Think about how your relationships enhance your life. Make a list of three people who are important to you and why they’re important.
• Who makes you feel loved? Tell one person how they make you feel loved.
• Make time to talk to a friend without interruption or distraction. Take turns talking about what’s important in your lives.
  
  

What I should know about Gratitude

Thankfulness fuels optimism, reinforces trust, and is often reciprocated. Feeling gratitude can increase kindness and create a sense of overall well-being and it adds to the quality of our relationships. Gratitude shows that we are aware of our own privilege, and thankful for the sources of goodness outside ourselves.

Ways to practice Gratitude

• Think about the list you made of five people who have shown you generosity. Thank at least one of them for making a difference in your life.
• Be grateful for challenges. Think about how a challenge in your life could be an opportunity for growth.
• Think of other ways you could express gratitude every day.
  

What I should know about Positive Outlook

Imagine the possibilities! Be open to the idea that everything turns out for the best, eventually. A positive outlook helps us be more hopeful and bounce back from adversity. People are more creative, resilient, and likely to do better in school and in life when they’re experiencing positive emotions. Embrace life’s potential!

Ways to practice Positive Outlook

• Think about what it means to have a “positive outlook.” How can you do this on a daily basis?
• How can you find the good in others? Make a note of two good traits you appreciate in your friends.
  
  

What I should know about Purpose

Live for something bigger than yourself. You can make a difference in the world – at school, at work, at home, for a team or a community, or in someone else’s life. Purpose means living by your values and goals. It means having a vision for your life’s mission and what you hope to achieve. Set out to do something meaningful. Strive to make a positive difference.

Ways to practice Purpose

• Think about what gives you a sense of purpose. Make a list!
• How can you make a positive difference for someone in your family?
• What are three things you can do this year to live your purpose and make a difference in the world?
  
  

What I should know about Generosity

Generosity doesn’t have to be about money. It can be about being helpful, supportive, or simply being kind. It’s about giving of yourself to someone else. Generosity has been shown to boost your endorphins, giving you an increased sense of well being.

Ways to practice Generosity

• Make a list of five ways others have shown you generosity (that did not involve money).
• Be patient when you're waiting for someone who is running late. You never know what could be holding them up and your kindness will mean a lot to them. A generosity of spirit!
• Offer to help someone without being asked. Donate time, money, or materials to an organization that helps others.