How to overcome mental barriers to improving health and wellness.. The How of Happy? How to overcome mental barriers to improving health and wellness..

What does being “happy” mean to you? What would make you happier? A better relationship, a new car, losing weight, more money, a different job, improved health…? Most people want to be happy, but we just don’t know how to get there. We hold onto myths about what happiness is and how to find it. Is it possible to become happier? Is happiness really in our control?

Mental Health is essential for Wellness Motivation Strength Resilience Inspiration Happiness

“Happiness Myths” Myth No. 1- Happiness Must Be “Found” The Shangri-la that is just out of reach, waiting for happiness to “happen” I can’t wait to grow up and “be happy” Myth No. 2- Happiness lies In Changing our Circumstances “I would be happy IF _____” or “I will be happy WHEN______.” Myth No. 3- Either you HAVE IT or YOU DON’T “We can overcome our genetic programming.” Buddhist monks teach themselves to be happy through meditation. -“The How of Happiness”, Sonja Lyubomirsky, Ph.D.

What determines Happiness? “The How of Happiness” -Sonja Lyubomirsky In study 50% of happiness is determined in your DNA (genetic) 10% circumstances beyond your control 40% is within your control

Happiness is “Inside Us” A state of mind A way of perceiving the world and ourselves Change and manage your thoughts and change your life!

Boost Your Happiness Positive Psychology in Action Positive Psychology Focuses on building Happiness and mental strength What is right? What makes life worth living? A guiding model of Positive Psychology is PERMA (Positive Emotion, Engagement, Relationships, Meaning, and Accomplishment).  The 5 essential elements that should be in place for lasting well-being.

Initial Happiness Score Track your progress by taking the Oxford Happiness Questionnaire on a regular basis How successful are happiness activities at boosting your happiness? Set point- fixed at birth Happiness Level- what you do and how you think? Activities in 40% happiness chart

What do HAPPY people do? Devote time to family and friends Express Gratitude Help others Optimistic- look on bright side Get physical exercise Commitment to life long goals

Intentional Happiness Activities Expressing Gratitude Cultivating Optimism Avoid Overthinking and Social Comparison Practicing Acts of Kindness Nurturing Social Relationships Developing Strategies for Coping Learning to Forgive Increasing Flow Experiences Savoring Life’s Joys Committing to your Goals Practicing Religion and Spirituality Taking Care of your body –Sonja Lyubomirsky, 2008

Person-Activity Fit Diagnostic Rate why you might keep doing this activity in terms of the following reasons: 1 (not at all) 2 3 4 5 6 7 (very much) Natural Enjoy Value Guilty Situation

Sustainable Happiness Positive Emotion Timing and Variety Social Support Motivation, Effort, Commitment Habit

Having a healthy mind… “What you put in your mind effects your stress level and chemistry of the body. “ –Dr Wayne Scott Andersen

Evaluate Emotional Wellness: Maintain balance- work, family, friends, and other obligations Do I have ways to reduce stress in my life? Am I able to make decisions with a minimum of stress and worry? Am I able to set priorities? Focus on changing your thoughts- positive psychology

Tips for Emotional Wellness Be aware of and accept your feelings Have an optimistic approach to life Be able to overcome life’s disappointments and frustrations Seek Support Express Emotions Set priorities Accept mistakes and learn from them Take good care of yourself   Keep expectations of yourself and others realistic Develop realistic goals and achieve them one day at a time Learn to accept changes Release anger and resentment Surround yourself with positive thoughts and positive people Be a friend to yourself Learn to laugh, especially at yourself If you are experiencing emotional difficulties talk to someone

You’re an OVERCOMER

Resilience and Rebound

FLOURISH…. Definition-The definition of the word FLOURISH means to grow or develop in a healthy or vigorous way, especially as a result of a favorable environment. Free yourself of unhealthy thought patterns…. Uncover Hidden Strengths….and watch yourself GROW!

Camille Kennard, LCSW Flourishwellnessconsulting.com