Straight from The Horse’s Mouth

Things could always be better. We could be smarter or richer or better looking, but one thing that would truly make a difference for everyone is being happier. Studies show that if joy is abundant many factors in our lives would improve both individually and collectively. Creativity would increase, productivity would soar, the educational system would show academic gains and we'd live longer. Feeling happy improves immune system functioning, therefore the burden on the health care system would be eased. In fact, researchers have shown that the economy is healthier when we are happier.

Did you know that emotions are contagious? You can actually catch a feeling from another person, even if you do not know them. There was a study in a small town where 50 people were taught skills to increase their happiness. They were to perform certain tasks; 1. Plant something and nurture it 2. Count your blessings – at least five– at the end of each day 3. Take time to talk – have an hour-long conversation with a loved one each week 4. Phone a friend whom you have not spoken to for a while and arrange to meet up 5. Give yourself a treat every day and take the time to really enjoy it 6. Have a good laugh at least once a day 7. Get physical – exercise for half an hour three times a week 8. Smile at and/or say hello to a stranger at least once each day 9. Cut your TV viewing by half 10. Spread some kindness – do a good turn for someone every day

After three months the researchers found that not only were the participants happier, but there was a ripple effect; the whole town had become happier. What inspires me about this fact is that happiness can be taught and caught. We're not fated to be solemn or so serious. There is hope for everyone who wants more optimism in their lives. You just have to learn happy habits and surround yourself with happy people!

When Glenn and I visited the Yanomami Indians of the Amazon and the Kuna Indians of the San Blas Islands we were shown that people have the ability to be happy in living conditions you and I might not be able to survive. We saw their smiles, heard their laughter. At times when we were suffering the heat or strange food perhaps they were laughing at us!

Our country has been through a rough patch in the last year. While THM has tried to create a positive atmosphere with the uplifting quotes on the walls and a general homey vibe throughout, we see that we all could use a bit more cheer. We need to smile more, laugh longer, and lighten up. I am going to take up the challenge of making these tasks a habit and increase my happiness. Wouldn't it be great to have lots of us take part? Lets do this and make our town an even better place for everyone. Stop by the bookstore for a hand-out of details for the experiment. Together we're going to make things better. (I'll bet we improve out looks, too!)