
apparently we all have a set range of general happiness, which fluctuates around,and is most likely determined by genetics. this set range contributes to about 50% of our happiness, and means when huge events happen in your life your emotions will go beserk but then eventually return to normal.
BUT the circumstances we live in affect our happiness too, but this only accounts for 8-15% of our happiness. Makes sense considering the abundance of depression and mental disease in western, wealthy countries such as ours, and the better coping mechanisms of that in poorer, developing countries.
As well we have voulountary control, and contributes to 42% of our happiness, we have many aspects of out lives which we have the power to change-the way we think and act in the past, present and future. we should be greatful, and forgiving when thinking of the past, be 'flexibly optimistic' when thinking of the future, and take pleasure in the simple good things of the present. i.e a nice coffee.
ahh so namby pamby i know, but maybe will help some, maybe help me appreciate the godamn moment for once.