HY 11/06: The Pursuit of Happiness | Lehigh Valley Hospital

Exactly what is this mysterious quality—and where do you find it?

“Be happy!” It’s an age-old refrain, especially in the holiday season—and now, researchers have new insights into the meaning of that familiar word.

Using everything from questionnaires to brain scans, they’ve discovered that a good marriage and social network are bigger factors in happiness than health, wealth or a nice home. A sense of control over your life and a spiritual dimension also are important. Even genetic makeup plays a role.

How would you define happiness? For counseling psychotherapist Ralph Erickson of Lehigh Valley Hospital and Health Network, “You’re happy when you’re at peace with life.” His colleague, chaplain Barbara Rutt, agrees: “Happiness isn’t a momentary thing, but a deep contentment.”

In a culture that breeds dissatisfaction, she says, that’s not easy to achieve. “We’re constantly told to be more perfect and acquire more things, versus being happy with who we are.”

The truth, Erickson says, is that “you have control over whether or not you’re happy. Of course there will be tough times, but it’s all in how you react. You can choose happiness; it just takes practice.” Ready to start?

Cultivate gratitude. Think of all you have to be thankful for. Write to someone you haven’t properly thanked.

Make time for happiness. “Commit to doing the things that bring you joy,” Erickson says.

See the bright side. “You can find something beautiful in any person or situation if you just look,” Rutt says. “Even getting stuck in traffic can become a chance to unwind.”

Stop beating yourself up. “All the great religions teach self-acceptance,” Rutt says.

Live healthy. Promote your well-being by exercising, breathing deeply, eating well, getting enough rest, and letting go of anger and frustration.

Take charge of your fears. Humans are the only animals able to imagine the future—and we imagine the worst. Erickson calls it “awfulizing.” “Think that worst-case scenario through to the end,” he says. “You’ll discover that you can cope.”

Reinforce the non-material, especially with children. Family togetherness is a much more lasting gift than an iPod.

Do things for others. It’s a powerful source of satisfaction.

Laugh. It helps you see the absurdity in stressful situations, take yourself lightly and maintain joy.

Be fully present in the moment. The past is gone and the future is unknown. Learning to savor “right now” is a key to contentment.

Want to Know More about the power of laughter, volunteering or healthy gifts for children? Click on the links in the column on the right side of this page.