Happiness
I recently learned of an excellent framework for looking at happiness, called the SPIRE, from Tal Ben-Shahar, author and educator. This model shows that happiness comes from many areas in our life.
S- for spiritual, which can be purpose and meaning in life to religious connection.
P- is related to our physical well-being, eating, sleeping, moving and the mind-body connection.
I -refers to intellectual happiness, which comes from being curious and deep learning.
R- is for relationship happiness and cultivating deep, meaningful relationships with others. For example, this is cultivated by connecting with loved ones or contributing meaningfully to a community.
E- comes from emotional happiness, which involves being able to process negative emotions and cultivate positive ones, such as gratitude and kindness.
This novel framework shows that happiness is a systems approach. We may not be great in all areas of the SPIRE model, but pretty good at some. However, if we want to increase our happiness overall, growing our happiness in one area will positively affect all others. For example, suppose we become better able to manage our emotions. In that case, we will also be more creative, open to learning new things and participate more positively in relationships. Yet, if we neglect any of these areas, it will negatively impact all the other aspects. So, for example, if we neglect our physical well-being, we are less likely to feel emotionally happy and want to participate in activities involving deep learning and curiosity. (This is something I see firsthand as a physician! 🤔)
Where are you thriving? Which areas do you need to cultivate?
How does this affect business and the workplace?
Well, research has shown that happy people are more productive, creative and more likely to contribute, which ultimately impacts the bottom line! 🤔
“Happiness is the joy you feel moving toward your potential”
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