Unveiling the Mastermind: The Man Behind the Scene of Global Happiness
- by Rune Weichert
Professorial advice affirming the possibility of cultivating happiness - Is it possible for humans to cultivate happiness?
From technology to economics, humanity has made profound advancements. Yet, when it comes to our personal happiness and well-being, there's still room for improvement. Essentially, it's all about enhancing life for everyone. It appears we've fallen short in achieving this goal in many ways; in some cases, it seems we might even be experiencing a backward slide.
- Happiness 101
- World Happiness Day fortnight
- Tay-Tay in Paradise
- The Wellness Revolution
- Sweden: The Happiest Nation?
- The Elusive State of Welfare
While the media coined the renowned Mr. Dahlen as the "world's first happiness professor," it's essential to acknowledge other pioneering figures in this field. Among them, Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi and Martin Seligman have significantly influenced our understanding of happiness and well-being.
Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi: The Flow Guru
In his quest to understand happiness, Csikszentmihalyi unearthed the concept of "flow" - a state of unparalleled absorption while engaging in an activity. This transcendental experience boosts happiness and creativity [5]. His philosophy revolves around embracing discipline, and engaging in activities that challenge us, providing an irresistible sense of accomplishment. In other words, it's the journey, not the destination, that truly matters.
Martin Seligman: Positive Psychology's Maestro
Seligman, the founder of positive psychology, focuses on bolstering our well-being rather than merely treating mental health issues. His PERMA model encapsulates the essential pillars of this philosophy:
- Positive Emotions: Cherishing joy, gratitude, and serenity.
- Engagement: Delving headfirst into challenging, fulfilling activities.
- Relationships: Nurturing and maintaining connections with others.
- Meaning: Discovering our purpose and living a life that resonates with our values.
- Achievements: Setting ambitious goals and celebrating our progress along the way.
Seligman's affluent contributions to the field of happiness research have illustrated the healing power of positive emotions and meaningful relationships, paving the path for a more fulfilling existence [1][4].
Though there's no universally acknowledged "world's first happiness professor," distinguished scholars like Dr. Laurie Santos and Dr. Arthur Brooks shine the light on happiness research. Dr. Santos's enlightening podcast, The Happiness Lab, offers captivating insights into the science of happiness and challenges preconceived notions about what actually makes us happy [2]. Dr. Brooks, on the other hand, advocates for a holistic approach to happiness, emphasizing self-awareness, habitual changes, and knowledge-sharing [1][4].
So, let's redefine the pursuit of happiness. Embrace challenges, relish positive emotions, build meaningful relationships, and never stop learning. It's high time we put ourselves on the path to a happier existence.
- The quest for understanding personal happiness and well-being continues, as humanity strives to improve life for all, despite advancements in technology and economics.
- Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi, often referred to as the Flow Guru, discovered the concept of 'flow' – a state that boosts happiness and creativity through unparalleled absorption in activities.
- Martin Seligman, the founder of positive psychology, emphasizes bolstering well-being by focusing on positive emotions, engagement, relationships, meaning, and achievements.
- In the pursuit of happiness, it's crucial to listen to enlightening podcasts like Dr. Laurie Santos's The Happiness Lab and adopt a holistic approach, advocated by scholars such as Dr. Arthur Brooks, emphasizing self-awareness, habitual changes, and knowledge-sharing.
