Wednesday, December 30, 2009

The Happiness Project


Have you heard of the new book, The Happiness Project? This is SO up my alley. The author, Gretchen Rubin, spent a year trying different antecdotes for happiness. She pulled happiness theories from all over the place - different cultures and eras (from Aristotle to Oprah) - tested them out and then wrote about her findings in this book.

This is especially interesting to me because I consider myself a student of happiness. In fact, a few years ago, I went on my own little happiness journey where I gave some serious thought to joy and whether or not it could be consciously increased. Along my journey, I documented all of my "ah ha" moments. I also collected quotes and thoughts from people I thought were on to something. My personal favorite is the apostle, Paul.

I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. I know what it is to be in need and to have plenty. I have learned the secret to being content in every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. I can do everything through Him who gives me strength. - Philippians 4:11

What I have personally found is that thinking about happy things helps bring out the happiness from within you.


So when I came across this book, I bubbled with excitement! I also came across the authors blog here http://www.happiness-project.com/

I think she might like lists as much as me too! I'll close with my favorite bible quote ever from Philippians 4:8:

Whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable - if anything is excellent or praiseworthy - think about such things. Whatever you have received or heard from me or seen in me - put into practice. And the God of peace will be with you. - Philippians 4:8

4 comments:

  1. I did a bible study a few years back called Keys to Contentment based mostly on Phillipians and Paul's letters. It totally changed my outlook, and taught me that being content and happy is not a result of your circumstances but rather your attitude and a joyful heart.

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  2. Girl, I think you just found your niche! Sharing ways to create happiness- real, true happiness is a huge blessing and is so important. I can't wait to read this book. Off to Amazon to check it out, and then onto the authors blog! Thanks girlie!!

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  3. Way to spread a contagious "happy" attitude! I will have to check this out as well, I love your blog title, on the bright side, isn't there always one?! ;)

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  4. Love it Summer... Phil 4:11 is one of my favorite verses. Timeless and applicable always. Happy New YEar, friend. xoxo

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