The Happiness Advantage
Have you ever said to yourself, “I’ll be happy when I….”?
When I get this promotion…
When I make a 6 figure salary…
When I get married…
What if it’s the other way round? Drawing on research from Harvard psychologist Shawn Achor’s The Happiness Advantage, let’s explore how happiness isn’t just a reward at the end of the journey—it’s the fuel that powers it. Grounded in neuroscience and positive psychology, this article is full of tools to help you coach yourself into a more joyful, productive state of mind.
Why Happiness Fuels Success
When we’re feeling positive, our brains enter an “optimal state”—we become more resilient, creative, and productive. Studies show that individuals with a happier mindset:
➡️ Perform tasks more efficiently
➡️ Enjoy stronger social connections
➡️ Bounce back from setbacks with greater ease
In short, happiness shifts the brain into high gear. And when we start from that place, we don’t just feel better—we do better.
The 7 Happiness Advantage Principles for Self-Coaching
1. The Happiness Advantage
Deliberately cultivate joy. Savour small wins, practice gratitude, and seek out moments that lift your mood. This builds emotional resilience and strengthens your brain’s ability to adapt.
2. The Fulcrum and the Lever
Change your perspective, change your power. By reframing challenges as opportunities, you gain the mental leverage needed to act decisively and grow stronger.
3. The Tetris Effect
Train your brain to scan for the positive. Each day, jot down three good things—this rewires your mind to notice and expect goodness around you.
4. Falling Up
When you fall, fall forward. Use setbacks as springboards. Journalling about what you’ve learnt from challenges helps you extract meaning and build strength.
5. The Zorro Circle
Start small. Focus on one manageable task or area of your life, and expand outward only when ready. It’s about regaining a sense of control, step by step.
6. The 20-Second Rule
Make good habits easier to start. Want to read more? Keep your book on your pillow. Want to stop scrolling? Delete the app. Just 20 seconds can make all the difference.
7. Social Investment
Happiness grows in connection. Share your goals with someone, check in regularly, and celebrate your progress together. Community boosts motivation and joy.
Your Happiness Toolkit: Daily Practices
Try incorporating one or two of these practices into your routine:
✍️ Gratitude Journal – Write three things you’re grateful for each morning.
🌬 Mindfulness Moment – Take five minutes to breathe and centre your thoughts.
🤝 Acts of Kindness – A simple message, a compliment, or a helping hand goes a long way—for them and for you.
Happiness as a Strategy
Happiness isn’t a luxury or a reward—it’s a strategy. When you treat it as the foundation of your day, everything changes: your energy, your relationships, your success.
Start small. Coach yourself gently. You don’t need to wait for life to get better—you can begin by feeling better now.
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