This title of this book that you are reading, “Cultivating Lasting Happiness”, indicates that they are different kinds of happiness. Happiness can be momentary as well as lasting. It can be short-lived or long-lived. The author of this work has delved into research on what it takes to have lasting happiness, and she has come back to bless us with the result of her search by giving us one of the best recipes for lasting happiness.
Happiness, just like many things in life, is difficult to describe in just one word or in one sentence. This is how Wikipedia describes it: “Happiness is a complex and multifaceted emotion that encompasses a range of positive feelings, from contentment to intense joy. It is often associated with positive life experiences, such as achieving goals, spending time with loved ones, or engaging in enjoyable activities. However, happiness can also arise spontaneously, without any apparent external cause.
Happiness is closely linked to well-being and overall life satisfaction. Studies have shown that individuals who experience higher levels of happiness tend to have better physical and mental health, stronger social relationships, and greater resilience in the face of adversity.
The pursuit of happiness has been a central theme in philosophy and psychology for centuries. While there is no single, universally accepted definition of happiness, it is generally understood to be a state of mind characterized by positive emotions, a sense of purpose, and a feeling of fulfillment.”
One of the common denominators of happiness is positivity, i.e. a positive emotion. Happiness is fueled and sustained by positive emotions that come from knowledge, self-discovery, empowerment, positive thinking, etc.
Knowledge is power, they say, and here comes Dr Gbemisola Ojo to empower us. For some, this knowledge would be an eye opener or a reminder, while for others; it would be an encouragement or a maintenance activity on the path of happiness. Throughout the following chapters, you will find a balanced, practical, straight to the point, ready to use, storytelling and an educative approach to understanding happiness and to having a lasting one.
Key components of happiness, such as emotional well-being, meaningful relationships, purpose, mindfulness and intentional right value-based choices, and their interconnectivity to one another to create a fulfilling and happy life were repetitively underlined.
This book is a tool for happiness. This book is an opportunity to become happy. Take the tool, seize the opportunity and become happy, even amid life’s hard challenges.
You can be happy. Yes, you can!
Pastor Bose Adelaja
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