Those who know the Harvard professor Tal Ben-Shahar, they say that he seems to have never had an unhappy day in his life. Her broad smile and friendly gaze convey security and tranquility, the key: positive psychology to face life with enthusiasm and joy. The writer and speaker states that although some people are born genetically happier or their personal circumstances by birth are more or less favorable, being aware of what we choose can improve happiness levels. It is necessary to learn to enjoy what you have by processing all emotions, even the negative ones.
In his books and lectures Tal Ben-Shahar, co-founder of the Academy of Happiness Studies, has explained that approximately 50% of happiness is determined by genes, 10% by external circumstances such as the country and family of birth, education and of course money. However, 40% of happiness comes from the decisions we make: “Exercising regularly, being grateful or disconnecting, are small options we have and that are part of that other 40%.”
The five elements of happiness
In search of a definition of happiness, the professor devised the model SPIRE with the acronyms of what he considers the five elements of happiness.
Yes: Spiritual: It refers to the search for meaning and purpose in life. The professor, in an interview on Theenergyblueprint.com, explained: “People can and often experience spirituality through religion. Could be through prayer. However, we can also experience a sense of the spiritual in our daily activities. For example, if I do something at work that is meaningful to me, that matters to me, I feel like I’m making a difference, I’m experiencing a spiritual sense.
Q: Physical: Taking care of the body and the connection between body and mind is essential to maintain happiness levels. Exercising generates endorphins that release tension and promote a feeling of well-being. “With thirty minutes of regular physical exercise three times a week we will not only be healthier but also happier.” But it is not only necessary to do sports, but also to have good sleep hygiene and eat a balanced diet.
I: Intellectual: Never losing curiosity and the desire to continue training, as well as being open to new experiences, is essential to being happy.
A: Relational: Foster constructive relationships with myself and others. The teacher assures that it is important to spend time with those we care about and who care about us, who make us calm, relaxed and, therefore, happy: «The most important source of happiness may be the person sitting next to you. Appreciate her and savor the time you spend together.
E: Emotional: Accept all emotions as a natural part of being human and seek more resilience and positivity. It is natural to feel envy or sadness in the face of a circumstance that seems unfair to us, but by accepting that feeling and assuming it we allow it to disappear without becoming entrenched. It is necessary to savor and appreciate the little things that life gives us, such as a smile, a hug, an evening, a walk or food.
A skill to practice
In conclusion, happiness is a skill that must be practiced: “Meditate regularly, exercise regularly, spend quality time with people you care about and who care about you… “We don’t have to do everything all the time. , but these small changes in our lives will increase happiness levels. Everything depends on commitment, perseverance, fulfilling our understanding,” says Ben-Shahar.
