The
key to happiness is having the ability to direct and manage our own neurophysiological
state. When we are in a resourceful or enabling state, we are full of
confidence, courage, power, enthusiasm, … and happy! On the other hand, when we
are in a paralyzing, pathetic or limiting state, we succumb to fear,
discouragement, negative self-talk, frustration, … and sadness L.
“Happiness depends
upon ourselves.” -- Aristotle
Now
that we have the key to happiness, we need to learn to approach the door to happiness
by understanding that our state or well-being is created by: i) internal
representations; and ii) the condition and use of our physiology.
As
explained by Anthony Robbins in his book “Unlimited Power”, Internal Representations consist of
what and how we picture in our mind as well as what and how we say and hear in
our mind. In short, what is our perception and assessment of our environment,
that is, the events or circumstances affecting us.
“It is the mind that
maketh good or ill, that maketh wretch or happy, rich or poor.” – Edmund
Spenser
Given
the myriad of signals or stimuli impacting us, the brain will filter and store
what is useful and necessary at our behest and allows our conscious mind to
ignore the rest. For example, when talking to someone seated with us in a
buzzling café, we activate our brain to focus on the conversation at hand and
ignore the load of distractions around us. Also, if we have just missed the
train by 3 seconds, we could tell ourselves that we are early for the next
train (and be happy) rather than blame ourselves and/or everybody else.
Physiology encompasses our posture,
biochemistry, diet (what we eat), how we breathe, energy and muscular
relaxation or tension. The condition of our physiology will affect the way we
experience and represent our world. For example, when we do not have sufficient
sleep, we will find that our ability to make decisions and handle stress will
be impaired.
Another
example would be to fast or cut down on our intake of calories by, say, eating
less for lunch, and thereafter feel the extra oomph of energy as the body burns
some fat. (Note: Fasting is a no-no for pregnant women and those of us who are underweight
or having a medical condition where fasting is not advisable.)
Thus,
we are in a state of flux as our internal representations and physiology are
constantly interacting with each other and affecting each other to create the
state that we experience.
However,
we can take control of our state by directing our internal representations and
taking care of our physiology. If we want to achieve a State of Happiness, we unlock the door to happiness by turning over
our weak state with a mixture or blend of internal representations and
physiology that would elevate us onto tip-top condition. More happiness to you
every day!
For Your
Inspiration
The
great news is that once we are in an energetic or happy state, our behaviour
will reflect our inner state, enabling us to say positive things and pursue our
passions – and make the world a better place one person at a time. Permit me to
share with you, now, on what world changers such as Hellen Keller and Nick
Vujicic has said about happiness.
Drawing
inspiration from Hellen Keller who said that true happiness comes through “fidelity
to a worthy purpose”, Nick Vujicic -- who was born without arms or legs, wrote in his devotional (“Limitless”) that
happiness means ”being faithful to your gifts, growing them, sharing them, and
taking joy in them. …You’ll find contentment when your talents and passion are
completely engaged and in full force.”
Bibliography
1. Section I, Chapter III, “Unlimited Power” by Anthony Robbins
2. Chapter 6, “Limitless” by Nick Vujicic
Related post which may be of interest to you:
* You Can Have A Better Brain!
