Exploring my way towards happiness, I started to see patterns that formed into a framework. Happiness often feels haphazard and out of our control. The reality is that we do have control over our happiness (see also Happiness Skills), indeed happiness is much about knowing over what we have control (our reactions and perceptions) and then surrender to the universe/life/God. It’s not about trying to control everything but specific things. The first five columns target what we can control or where we can have a say. The last column focuses on the most important aspect of happiness – letting go or surrendering.
In detail, the columns of the Exploring Happiness Framework are:
Dreams
The first column addresses what we strive for, which identity/ies we aim to adopt, and long-term thinking. Dreams set how we want to live our lives, how we best allocate our resources, and how we work with our skills and talents. Dreams can offer meaning and purpose, which again offer stability and something to work towards in life. Reaching the goal is important but more so is enjoying the process of getting there (called living).
Resources
We continue feeling that we don’t have enough – usually time, money or energy. Looking into our resources, decluttering them and understanding the abundance available is facilitating happiness which is often restricted by the scarcity mindset.
Mindset
The mind is the main inhibitor of happiness – do you think you do not deserve to be happy or you cannot be happy? Well, good news: the mind is also the biggest happiness supporter. Working with beliefs, hormones, awareness and habits, anyone can throw the ship around and embrace happiness. Sounds cheesy? It’s scientifically proven!
Health
When the machine is broken, it’s very hard to be happy. This pillar of the framework covers why nourishing, resting and moving our bodies is so essential for happiness.
Connections
Humans need connections; we thrive under good relationships, community and cooperation. I’m splitting connections into Love (family and friends) and Community (neighbours, work colleagues, local shop owners, baristas, fellow gym members/school parents/dog owners etc.). Developing and nourishing both types of connections prevent loneliness – the new lethal epidemic.
Letting Go
While the first five pillars focus on areas in which we can take control, the last pillar addresses the fact that we have almost no control and that it’s ok. Surrendering all control except for the areas above and trusting in the universe/God/deity/life is key to happiness. This pillar includes topics like forgiveness, fun & play, creativity and spirituality.
The Exploring Happiness Framework is the foundation for my course and any content, I create.