The topic of happiness is proably not something you focus on daily – often it is just an emotion that creaps up on you.
Over ten years ago, I studied the subject of positive psychology with American Psychologist Marty Seligman. If you are interested in the topic of emotional well being then I encourage you to check out the resources and books on the topic he pioneered – authentic happiness.
The topic of happiness has been at the front of my mind recently particularly in relation to my role as a parent – you can read about recent research in relation to how we can increase our own happiness by how we respond to life events here. This led me to wondering how I can prepare my children for a future where the world constantly changes – in other words how I help them become emotionally resilient.
In 2011, the UN General Assembly adopted a resolution which recognised happiness as a “fundamental human goal” and called for “a more inclusive, equitable and balanced approach to economic growth that promotes the happiness and well-being of all peoples”.
In 2012 the first ever UN conference on Happiness took place and the UN General Assembly adopted a resolution which decreed that the International Day of Happiness would be observed every year on 20 March. It was celebrated for the first time in 2013.
As International Happiness Day (or World Happiness Day as some people refer to it) takes place this week I thought I would curate some resources from Action For Happiness who provide easily accessible ideas that we can all adopt whether we are a parent, a teacher or a business leader. I realise studying the topic of positive psychology is not relevant for us all!
Firstly there is a guidebook with ten keys for happier living – you can see the check list below and also more details on the ten point check list in the presentation.
There is also a seven day happiness challenge that we can participate in.
The organisation also has a free happiness resource pack that you can download – view it below.
If you are in Ireland however you might be interested in attending a live event to help inspire you on the topic of Happiness – it takes place on the morning of 20 March in the Mansion House Dublin.
Speakers include Dr Mark Rowe discusses his ‘Prescription for Happiness’ and he is aiming to reframe the national conversation towards positivity and possibility and in doing so, improving our health and wellbeing; Nora Casey, broadcaster and publisher entrepreneur, will discuss how ‘ The Power of You’, and Gerry Hussey, Elite Athlete performance consultant, will talk about how to focus on ‘Maximising your talents’. You can find details of the event here and all proceeds go to Barretstown.
Thanks to a previous colleague from Diageo who is a member of the organising team for reaching out and sharing this event with me.
What will you do to get involved in International Happiness Day this year?
