Headstart for Happiness
Eager to learn the secrets to achieving and maintaining happiness?
USC students certainly are: They are flocking to Patricia George’s popular discussion-based course, “Happiness: Research in Neuroscience and Positive Psychology.” The course enables students to study the science of happiness while engaging each week in different activities proven by research to improve mood.
George, an assistant professor (teaching) of psychology, says that about 50% of our happiness is determined by genetic factors and another 15% by circumstances beyond our control. But she emphasizes an uplifting truth: 35% of our happiness is totally up to us.
“As a result, we should feel empowered to take control of our own happiness,” she says. “By regular practices that focus on positivity, we can consistently improve our mood.” —S.B.
5 easy ways to boost your mood
- CULTIVATE SOCIAL CONNECTION Whether it’s a phone call, meeting for coffee, or a walk with a friend, spend time with people you care about. Strong social bonds are the most important factor in boosting joy and well-being.
- PRACTICE GRATITUDE DAILY Name five things you’re grateful for and reflect on why. “By consciously practicing gratitude, we retrain our brain to notice and appreciate the good in our lives” says George. That helps rewire our brains for happiness.
- MEDITATE REGULARLY Meditation is another powerful tool for rewiring the brain, helping us stay calm in the face of negative events.
- EXERCISE OFTEN Physical activity is more than a great way to burn off stress and manage negative emotions; it also releases endorphins and dopamine — chemicals that boost pleasure and well-being.
- PRIORITIZE SLEEP Quality sleep is vital to our mood and cognitive functioning.
What’s the Point
Philosophers tackle life’s biggest question — and offer some surprising answers.
