How to be happy - one of life’s great questions. The problem is happiness is an emotion that changes depending on your situation. So how can you stay happy?
During the spring of 2022, Cobus Oosthuizen (Ph.D) - Founder of LifeXchange and neurolinguistic expert shared with me and my team one of the secret formulas to how you can go about finding ways to ever lasting happiness.
In his thick South African accent Cobus says “First! You need to understand that there are four levels of happiness!”. In addition to this, each happiness level has a duration on how long it lasts.
Happiness level 1: Instant gratification - short bursts of happiness. Examples could be gambling, a nice drink, eating a cake, smoking. You get the picture. The happiness duration is brief and on its own can often lead to addictive habits.
Happiness level 2: Achievement - longer duration than level 1. Examples could be reaching a milestone, completing a task. It fills you with a lingering sense of accomplishment and pride.
Happiness level 3: Going Beyond Self - Decision to help others before yourself. Examples could be charitable, forgiving and letting others feel grateful for your help. This can leave you with a sense of well-being and acknowledgment.
Happiness level 4: Purpose - duration can last a lifetime. Knowing what’s in it for you and what gets you out of bed. Your why can give you a sense of fulfilment and enjoyment. Building the foundation in who you are. This is not always aimed at careers, but could be something more personal to you.
What does this look like in practice? My H levels change often, but here are a few personal examples:
Discover what works for you! Obviously aspects in life are challenging. You can use this method as a starting point to look after yourself, help others and be happy, knowing that what you’re doing makes a difference :).
To find out more - check out the incredible work that Cobus and his team does at LifeXChange.
