Monday 30 July 2012

Be Happy – An 8-Day Happiness Program


I have created for Oprah.com an eight-day mini-version of the Be Happy program. I have selected eight exercises for you, one for each day, to be completed over eight consecutive days.  I recommend that you give each exercise at least 15 minutes a day.  If possible do this program with a buddy, as this will give you a chance to get into some rich conversations and also offer you extra support.

Here is Day One for you:  Click HERE to see the entire course on Oprah.com

Day 1:  Defining True Happiness

What is your definition of a happy life?  Are you living it?  Do you remember to include yourself in your definition?  Think carefully on this because your definition of happiness will influence every other significant decision in your life.  For instance, if you think happiness is outside you, you will turn happiness into a search, a pursuit, or a destination; whereas if you know happiness is inside you then happiness becomes a compass, a guide, and an enabler that helps you to live a rich life.

Be Happy Exercise:  There is a world of difference between searching for happiness and following your joy.  Your first assignment is to reflect on the question “When am I at my happiest?” Identify what inspires you, nourishes you, and fans the flames of joy within.  Being clear about this will help you to be true to yourself, to be honest, to make better choices, and to have the courage to say a big YES to what really matters most to you in life.  Say “YES” to joy today.