The Secrets to Happiness

I confess - It's been 2.5 months since my last blog. Time flies when you're doing things you love to do. Don't wait until tomorrow (it's always today), or retirement, or when you have more money. Live life without regrets.

I just attended a Family Medicine conference in Kauai (I know, rough life). My generous parents babysat our children while my husband and I had ONE WEEK OFF FROM OUR REGULAR LIVES. We did things we used to do pre-children: went for a bike ride, ate breakfast and dinner together, lay in bed, had showers EVERY DAY, slept for 10 hours straight. And, things we've never done: rode around in a convertible Mustang while gazing up at the gorgeous stars, snorkelled (in a swimming pool - hee, hee), ate shaved ice in rainbow colours, ordered drinks AND EXPENSIVE FOOD poolside, bought cruise wear (who does that?!), discovered and enjoyed quaint local cafes (thanks Garmin).

There was also a fabulous lecture by Dr. David Sobel MD, MPH. I will summarize his keynote.

Determinants of happiness are comprised of: 50% genetics (uncontrollable), 10% circumstances and events (uncontrollable) and 40% thoughts and actions (CONTROLLABLE). Forty percent control is a huge chunk of power!

Secrets to being happy are: 1) Sensuality (smell, touch, taste, and having a functioning brain), 2) Optimism, and 3) Altruism.

So, if you're feeling down in the dumps, try improving on any one of the aforementioned areas. For example, do something for someone else, hold someone's hand, don't let your mind wander but enjoy the moment, and always remember it could be worse. Your mood will thank you, you will live a longer life, and each day will feel like a gift rather than a chore.