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During one of my many internet searches this week, I stumbled upon this interesting article about happiness: Happiness Keeps Growing.There were 3 main tidbits that hit me while reading this article.
One: Research shows that older folks are happier because they simple don't put up with as much negative stuff as the rest of us. Whether because of wisdom of age, or lack of time and a focus on priorities--this group of people has learned not to get stuck in the negative. As the writer says this group has gained more 'emotional control' so they limit the stress and negativity in their lives. What a great lesson for any age group!!
Two: The article goes on to state that one of the reasons this group can avoid these stressful situation is because they are "more clear on the intentions of others". Situations don't become negative because they don't take everything personally and get stuck in the criticism.
Three: Social relationships improve mental health! It is important to have strong social relationships and these relationships dramatically decrease stress.
AH! Such nuggets of wisdom there--happiness comes from avoiding negative situations and one of the way to avoid negative situations is to have more understanding about the people in our lives. More understanding that everything isn't about us--that people's intentions aren't always bad--that they might be doing the best they can with what they have.
Wouldn't it be great if we could learn these lessons early in life! We could learn that time is limited, negativity is not helpful, get clear on what our priorities are and have some love and understanding for ourselves and those around us!! It's just that simple-ha!! Ok so I guess maybe we need time to learn all those lessons--but we CAN start implementing them in to our lives one little step at a time.
