The Happiness Advantage by Shawn Achor is based on his work as a lecturer at Harvard and his expertise in Positive Psychology.

Shawn discovered that when students started at Harvard their anxiety levels rose significantly particularly for students who felt they were “not as smart” as other students.

To compensate some of the students who felt anxious neglected their wellbeing, their activities and experiences that made them feel happy and joyful and as a result their academic performance suffered!

In his research Shawn has discovered that when we are well, when we are happier, more joyful, peaceful etc. dopamine is released in the brain. Dopamine not only makes us happier but also turns on all the “learning centres” in our brains.

The Happiness Advantage brings significant advantages:

• When you are more happy and positive you overcome obstacles, and reverse bad habits.
• The more happy you are the more you become more efficient and productive, and make the most of opportunities.
• The happier you are the more you conquer your most ambitious goals, and reach your fullest potential.

The good news is that research from Positive Psychology shows us that happiness in not in the future but more in the present. These proven activities increase your wellbeing and happiness levels:

Meditate

Studies show that in the minutes right after meditating we experience feelings of calm and contentment as well as heightened awareness and empathy. Also research has shown that regular meditation can permanently rewire the brain to raise levels of happiness, lower stress and improve immune function. Meditation can be as simple as closing your eyes and counting as you breathe in and out, or just focusing on your breathing.

Look forward to something

Studies found that people who just thought about watching their favourite movie actually raised their endorphin levels by 27%. Often, the most enjoyable part of an activity is the anticipation.

Infuse Positivity

Your physical environment can have an enormous impact on your mindset and sense of wellbeing. You may not have complete control of your surroundings, but you can make specific efforts to infuse them with positivity. Photos of loved ones around your room is an example. Making time to go outside on a nice day also delivers a huge advantage; one study found that spending 20 minutes outside in good weather not only boosted positive mood, but broadened thinking and improved working memory.

Exercise

The benefits of exercise are:

1) Boosting mood and enhancing work performance.

2) Improving motivation and feelings of mastery.

3) Reducing stress and anxiety.

4) Helping you get into that state of flow.