Weekly: What we can do together
Old Happy: "If I can't save the world, I shouldn't even try."
New Happy: "If I can help the world in my unique way, I must try."
When I look at the people who are making the world a better place, they all have three strengths in common—both of which can be learned by anyone.
First, they find a way to live in both the present and the future simultaneously. They look at the world and decide that it should be, can be, must be better in the future, heeding more of Wendell Berry's guidance to "do unto those downstream as you would have those upstream do unto you." And then they come back to the present moment and figure out, what can I do here and now?
Second, they find a way to take responsibility for the whole without believing that the whole is theirs alone to carry. They know that one person can't fix everything (an Old Happy myth, grounded in individualism, the idea that there's a single hero coming to save us.) But they know that that doesn't mean they shouldn't try to do their part, because there is something special that they are here to do, something that only they can do.
Finally, they gather with others who share these qualities, and go on the journey with them. They celebrate their community members for their progress, sit with them in their setbacks, and learn from their experiences. They draw strength from their connectedness, and give their strength back through it.
Here are three questions you can ask yourself to cultivate these strengths:
What is my dream for the future?
Where can I make that dream possible?
Who shares my dream?
Tips and Tools
1. How to feel your feelings — This week's animation.
2. Always evolving — It's a privilege to change.
3. How to be a better listener — Help people open up.
4. Remember your strength — You've gotten through so much.
5. Wait til it passes — A rule for big feelings.
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
Where do you find purpose in your life?
"In caring for the land."
"Raising healthy children who know they are loved."
"Advocating for and fostering language development in deaf/hh children"
"To love and be loved."
"To make life better for others."
"To fight for freedom for everyone."
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.
