The equation of Happiness
Jan 28th, 2008 by Miranda
Being a Psych Major has its benefits, like hearing about the latest fandangled studies! One of my TA’s is actually presently doing a study that I seem to see evidence for everywhere in my life and I thought this might be valueable information to pass on, especially to possible students. Switching lifestyles/finding your own lifestyle leads one on an life experiment of sorts and I thought this information could be valueable to all of those in that transition phase, or even those in a little bit of a lull. Keep and open mind and perhaps new doors will be opened for you as well.
You are probably curious about the title of this little diddy. Well.. to be quite honest, of course there is no equation but there are being experiments done in order to collect data supporting the idea that there are means by which we can calculably increase the amount of happiness in our lives… and if you think it involves money, IT DOES!
It is starting to be shown that although the accumulation and accommidation of wealth does not automatically equal happiness, in fact, almost the opposite (just turn to Hollywood for evidence supporting that… all the riches in the world don’t seem to be able to buy their happiness), but rather WHAT we spend our money on. When we spend it on ourselves or our “needs” or “wants” we are just feeding into the idea that we must have MORE money. BUT those individuals that spend more money on others or on charities without any anticipation of return are those that benefit the most from the spending procedure.
Having this idea introduced to me last term, I have encountered a number of studies and “proofs” looking to support this notion and I cannot wait for my TA/friend’s paper to be published because I really think this idea is going to spread like wild fires. I mean, look at the book The Secret… it is all based upon these vary same, basal properties.
In order to reap my end of the reward, I have begun volunteering at the Crisis Center here in Vancouver. For any of you thinking of taking Grad School in the councelling sector, dont forget about the rigorous enrollment criterion and start early; the Crisis Center being one of the best places for this due to its extensive training. I also started volunteering in the lab as a research assistant this term for a new Professor Claire Ashton-James. This is going to be a good year for me.