Dr. John Tassy, a psychologist at the University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center in Oklahoma City, says that although some people may perceive happiness as "an abstract concept," there are concrete steps people young and old can take to make life happier. Among them:
- Exercise. Regular exercise is a mood elevator and stress reducer. Daily exercise is best, but 20 minutes three to four times a week is enough.
- Set goals and strive to achieve them. Studies indicate that 30% of the people who set "unrealistic" goals actually achieve them.
- Take charge of your life and your emotions. Don't become a victim of your feelings. If you're in a down mood, decide how long you want to stay there and work to get out of it as soon as possible.
- As soon as you wake up, make a conscious choice to make the most of the day. "Your have a choice every day whether or not you'll be happy," Tassey says.
The Cleveland Plain Dealer, Aug. 23, 1992
The Dilbert Zone
