Today’s society is plagued by several stressful elements: deadlines, traffic jams, arrogant managers and the like. One predictor of this is the endless supply of self-help books ranging from work stress relief to managing time efficiently.Many of these are purely subjective and just based on the author’s opinion and not on any scientific research or data. That’s why positive psychology researchers - experts in the field of happiness research - are skeptic.

Former president of American Psychological Association Dr. Martin Seligman saw this emerging problem and in 1998, he founded the positive Psychology Movement and presently, “it has grown into one of the most promising branches of psychology.”

Positive psychologist suggest that to attain an optimistic outlook in life, one must embrace that happiness has the power to control ones’ self and to create internal joy. They suggested these practical tips to be used on a daily basis:

1. Use Past Experiences Constructively

This involves avoiding sticking to negative thoughts from past experiences to be able to move on and live a ‘fresher’ life. Utilizing earlier life experiences and applying it to the present will lead to a brighter future.

2. Focus Energy on the Present

By making an effort to anticipate in advance potential positive occurences present in your daily life, you will be more alert to unanticipated positive events. Also, by taking “mental photographs” of momentary pleasures will help in capture these positive occurences. Lastly, it helps to have a routine to ponder the positive things that existed in a day as not to take some things for granted.
3. Work Towards the Future

Planning for the future is a good idea and it really is. Just keep it realistic and avoid shooting for fantasy.
4. Engage in Physical Activity on a Regular Basis

Athletes know this already that having an active physical life makes a happy person. Scientifically, physical activities allows the brain to release feel good hormones and chemicals that regulates and increases the mood of a person. Make an effort to find time to have physical activities as long your body is capable of doing it.
5. Explore Ways of Finding Meaning

By dedicating yourself in believing something bigger than you will provide you with a sense of purpose and worth that makes life more meaningful. One good example of this is by having a spiritual life.
6. Assume a “Big Picture” Perspective

Having a “Big Picture” perspective is like having a guide in your life. It is inevitable to one’s life to encounter problems or a stressful situation and having thi kind of perspective works. By asking yourself if the stress you are feeling is beneficial for you in the long run, you can save efforts in emotional investment and of course, time. Just keep an eye in your priorities by considering ways to use these as an opportunity for growth.
7. Invest in Relationships

There is a saying that “no man is an island;” this makes sense as people are created to be with other fellow human beings. Investing in relationships like family and friends provides comfort or a shoulder to cry on once a painful event occurs. They can also be an extension of your happiness in a way that you can share it all together.

Source: www. stamfordplus.com