According to psychologist, Dr. Robert Holden, director of "The Happiness Project" (England) we all have what can be termed, 'a happiness contract'. What this means is that we've all completed - in the back of our minds - a happiness contract in which we've predetermined how much happiness is possible AND how much is too good to be true. This type of contract contains a central clause which states that happiness must be deserved. Happiness needn't be deserved, earned, given, or bestowed upon you. It is free and is a natural component of your true self.
It is quite difficult to know what makes you happy if you don't know yourself well. According to Dr. Holden, once you begin to know who you truly are, you can begin to cultivate true happiness. Focusing internally on your authenticity, rather than externally on achievements or other people, is key.
D.
Adapted from "Find True Happiness", Stephanie Mitchell, Oprah.com, August 18, 2009.
About Me
- Deborah K. Hanula
- Deborah K. Hanula has a year of Journalism training from Humber College, a Political Science degree from the University of Waterloo, and a Law degree from the University of British Columbia. In addition, she has Diplomas in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Child Psychology, and Psychotherapy and Counselling as well as a Family Life Educator and Coach Certificate and Certificates in Reflexology, Assertiveness Training, and Mindfulness Meditation. She is the author of five cookbooks, primarily concerned with gluten-free and dairy-free diets, although one pertains to chocolate. As an adult, in the past she worked primarily as a lawyer, but also as a university and college lecturer, a tutor, editor, writer, counsellor, researcher and piano teacher. She enjoys a multi-faceted approach when it comes to life, work and study, in order to keep things fresh and interesting. Check out her new book: A Murder of Crows & Other Poems (2023).
