The Happiness Project

Is it...getting enough sleep? Yes, but that's not what I'm thinking of.

Is it...getting some exercise? Yes, but that's not what I'm thinking of.

“It is so many years before one can believe enough in what one feels even to know what the feeling is.”

Gratitude is a key element for a happy life. People who cultivate gratitude get a boost in happiness and optimism, feel more connected to other people, are better-liked and have more friends, are more likely to help others—they even sleep better and have fewer headaches.

Happiness interview: Mr. Lady.

One of my favorite things: when I read a book that transforms the way I see the world, or the way I see the possibilities of writing. Another one of my favorite things: when I convince someone to read one of those books, and he or she loves it as much I do.

2011 Happiness Challenge: For those of you following the 2011 Happiness Project Challenge, to make 2011 a happier year -- and even if you haven’t officially signed up for the challenge -- welcome! This month’s theme is Creativity, and last week’s resolution was to Take time for projects. Did you try that resolution? Did it boost your happiness?

Recently, my older daughter and I went to the post office to apply for her passport.

I'm very interested in what people find fun -- or not -- so was intrigued to read this post on play on The Shu Box.

Happiness interview: Monica Rich Kosann.

I recently read (sort of) Frederick Brooks's The Mythical Man-Month. As I understand it, this book is a cult classic, and I was very curious to read it. It's about software project management, and even though that's a subject about which I know nothing, I found the book very interesting -- that is, the parts I could understand.

This month’s theme is Creativity, and last week’s resolution was to Force yourself to wander. Did you try that resolution? Did it boost your happiness?

Have I mentioned that The Happiness Project is now out in paperback? Yes, it's true! Buy now, don't delay!

Happiness interview: Brené Brown.

We all have to make decisions about how to spend our time, energy, and money. Because of my happiness project, I now explicitly ask myself, “Will this decision make me happier?” I’m determined to get the most happiness bang for the buck.

2011 Happiness Challenge: For those of you following the 2011 Happiness Project Challenge, to make 2011 a happier year -- and even if you haven’t officially signed up for the challenge -- welcome! This month’s theme is Creativity, and last week’s resolution was to Do something every day. Did you try that resolution? Did it boost your happiness?

Assay: For the last month or so, I’ve been possessed with a passionate interest in the sense of smell. I follow the resolution to Cultivate good smells...

One of the bedrock principles of my happiness project is that I can't change anyone but myself. It's so easy to imagine that I’d be happier if only other people would behave properly, but I can't assign resolutions to anyone but myself.

Happiness interview: Andrew Mangino.

We've all had days where it seems as though nothing gets done.

This month's theme is Creativity, and this week’s resolution is to Do something every day.