Human Relations– MGMT611 VU
© Copyright Virtual University of Pakistan
115
Lesson 37
ACHIEVING HAPPINESS-2
Definition of happiness
Happiness, a state of joy, pleasure, goodness, or satisfaction.
The secret of happiness
Decide to be Happy.
You feel the way you think and you act the way you feel. Everything has positive and negative both aspects.
It is up to you which side you see. It is just like the example of a glass “half empty or half full”. One will
find the glass half full whereas the other might say half of the glass is empty. Different people think
differently, so a particular phenomenon can be explained in the different perspectives.
The Five Principles of Psychological Functioning
According to a research the genes play a significant role in the happy personality of a person. But as far as
the psychologists’ point of view is concerned happiness is something which can be achieved by controlling
the negative emotions and feelings of pessimism, cynicism, distrust, anger and annoyance.
A related approach to finding happiness is to follow the five principles of psychological functioning
recommended by popular psychologist Richard Carlson. One can be happy by learning the techniques and
skills of self-management.
1. The first principle is thinking. Directing your thinking in a positive direction will enhance your
happiness. Think positive and be optimist. Positive thinking always leads towards acquiring
happiness.
2. The second principle is moods. Ignoring bad moods contributes to happiness. Learn to control your
mood.
3. The third principle is separate psychological realities, suggesting that you accept the idea that people
think differently. All the people can not think alike, you must have the ability to listen to the other
peoples’ point of view and accept them as they are.
4. The fourth principle is feelings. If you feel discontented, for example, clear the head and start
thinking positively. Enjoy what you have, don’t spoil your life by craving for what you don’t have.
5. The fifth principle of psychological functioning is the present moment. The present moment is where
most people find happiness and inner peace. One can not change one’s past, neither can predicts
one’s future. The only thing in one’s hands is the present. Focus on your present and be happy.
Tips to achieve happiness
One can only be happy if one has the desire and intention to be happy. You should be aware of the things
that spoil your mood so that you avoid or control such environment. Now we will have a look at the
fourteen tips to be happy.
1) Endeavor to change the way you look at things. Always look at the bright side.
2) Think of solutions, not problems. If you keep on thinking about the problem, you will keep
yourself unhappy. Try to find out the solutions to get rid of the problem.
3) Listen to relaxing, uplifting music. Take relaxing exercises. Meditation and indulging in your
favourite activity will also be helpful in uplifting your mood.
4) Watch funny comedies that make you laugh.
5) Each day, devote some time to reading a few pages of an inspiring book or article.
6) Watch your thoughts. Whenever you catch yourself thinking negative thoughts, start
thinking of pleasant things. You can control your negative thinking by looking at the
positive side of the phenomenon.
7) Always look at what you have done and not at what you haven't. Appreciate yourself for your
achievements.
8) Each day do something good for yourself. Rewarding yourself with little things will keep
you in good mood. For example, buying a book, eating something you like, watching you
favorite program on TV, going to a movie, or just having a stroll on the beach.
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