Getting Married? Be Open to Growth

Founder of Identity Magazine, Susan Vernicek provides you with a little science–yes, the science behind happiness. Go ahead, take your first steps in accepting control and choosing happiness.

Did you know that there is actual science behind happiness? Do you think if you aren’t happy that you can change and be happier? The answer is YES. There are studies of severely depressed individuals that have practiced using selective tools towards being happier, and have shifted over to happiness.

It’s important to accept first and foremost that you are responsible for your overall control and choices concerning happiness. There is science behind happiness, and it even states one who is not happy CAN make the shift to happiness. A great book to read is “The How of Happiness” by Sonja Lyubomirsky–I highly recommend this book for all to read. I’ve even used some of the tools to increase my happiness.

I want to give you an assignment for this month. In Sonja Lyubomirsky’s book, she shares how our happiness is broken up in 3 categories: 50% of our happiness is genetics, 10% is made up of our circumstances, and 40% of our happiness is connected to the way we think and act–our daily actions and thoughts.

If you can accept the truth that your life circumstances (more money, having a boyfriend, being married, having a baby, etc.) are not the keys to happiness, you can be greatly empowered to pursue happiness just for yourself.

Start with this exercise, and pick up the book “The How of Happiness.” It will shift your thinking and raise your happiness level IF you accept and choose to work on the 40%….

1. Brain dump:
– Jot down all that you think you don’t have control over. Think about the excuses you make–are they excuses because you aren’t accepting responsibility and control?
– Next, write down all that makes you happy right now. Think about what gives you joy, what brings you to smile?
– Now write down all that you THINK will make you happier. Do you think about having more money, having another job, having a different career, having a baby, having a new wardrobe, more shoes, etc.?

2. Craft a Concept:
Take a look at your brain dump and soak in what you wrote by reading over it a few times. Start to craft a journal, article, or letter to yourself about your happiness and what you have discovered from your brain dump. This does not have to be a final piece of writing. This is for you to release and map out initial steps towards more happiness.

3. Connect/Share:
If you feel comfortable, we’d love for you to share in the comments below–you never know who you could help or who could help you make any kind of shift.

Identity Magazine is all about empowering women to get all A’s in the game of life — Accept. Appreciate. Achieve.^TM Every contributor and expert answer the Identity 5 questions in keeping with our theme. As a team, we hope to inspire and motivate ourselves and inspire you to get all A’s.

What have you accepted in your life that took time, physically or mentally?

I have accepted that happiness isn’t always present in my life. I believe I am supposed to experience the ups and downs of all emotions to really feel happiness and appreciate it. My physical body reflects my happiness because I choose to take care of it. I used to not be happy and I was much heavier and unhealthy.

What do you appreciate about yourself and within your life?

I appreciate my journey in finding happiness and passion. My life isn’t perfect, but I appreciate all that I have.

What is one of your most rewarding achievements in life? What goals do you still have?

Finding happiness and peace has been rewarding.

What is your not-so-perfect way? What imperfections and quirks create your Identity?

I tend to be over optimistic with others. Sometimes I need to just let them vent.

How would you complete the phrase “I Love My…?”

I love my rough looking hands. As I type I see all the veins from years of hard work and they remind me of my fathers hands.