Weekly: It’s enough
Old Happy: "I need more and more in order to be happy."
New Happy: "I have so much, and realizing that makes me happy."
You need more. This message runs like a river through Old Happy culture, affecting us from a very early age. We’re told that more is the secret to happiness.
Research shows, however, that the pursuit of more stuff doesn’t actually make us happy.
First of all, we adapt very quickly to good things in our lives. This is called hedonic adaptation. No matter what you get, you tend to get used to it.
Other studies have found that people who are more materialistic —which means they value stuff and money more highly — are more likely to be lonely, struggle with their relationships, and rate themselves as less satisfied with life.
Notice what this desire for more feels like inside of you. Maybe it’s a sort of clenching in your stomach. It could be a racing heart that signifies your fear. It could be a sense of urgency that leaves no space to pause and ask if something more is actually necessary.
When you feel that feeling, ask yourself, “What need am I trying to fill here?"
With that need in mind, you can look around to figure out how you can fulfill it.
Many of our needs can be fulfilled by simply pausing to notice, appreciate, and enjoy the good that is already present in our lives. You have people to love you, things that nourish you, community to support you, agency to make different choices, and interests to inspire you. These things can fulfill you in a way that more and more cannot.
Tips and Tools
1. Mistakes lead to growth — This week's animation.
2. How to overcome self-doubt — A simple perspective shift.
3. What if? — If it worked out, what would you do?
4. Step back — Notice your patterns.
5. If you're ruminating — Three strategies.
More from TNH
Book — Order New Happy today to find true happiness.
Podcast — Get a daily morning pep talk — in five minutes or less
Speaking — Book us to speak to your team about well-being, resilience, and productivity.
Articles — Read more articles on our website.
Community
What matters most to you?
"Being open to life's experiences."
"The happiness of my loved ones and also the peace of the world."
"My health and my family."
"Making a difference in the world."
"Striving to be a better person."
“Family.”
“Be in harmony with myself and the people I choose to be in my life. Be coherent with my values.”
Before You Go
The Definitive Guide to Happiness
A groundbreaking new approach based on a decade’s worth of research and brought to life with beautiful artwork, New Happy shows you the proven path to happiness.
No spam, just joy.
