Happiness

“Happiness” is hypothetical but a useful concept in positive psychology. Happiness is a pleasant emotion and has very personal meaning for each of us. Scientists are now trying to explain it in an objective way. They classified happiness into three broad levels that represent dimensions from surface (superficial) to deep feeling of wellness (bliss). On surface level it is called “pleasant life” that mean a person appreciate and savour the basic pleasures such as companionship, natural environment and satisfaction of body needs i.e. food, sleep and sex etc. The next level is “Good Life” where one discovers his unique virtue and strength by employing them creatively to enhance quality of life. The example of this type of happiness is a musician who use his talent to create a peaceful and soothing piece of music that give him immense satisfaction.

The highest level is “Meaningful Life” that mean a deep sense of fulfilment by employing our unique strength for the purpose greater than ourselves. Here a person get happiness through employing efforts for making others life peaceful and happy. Example may be a scientist who discovered drug to cue illness or philosopher/saint who transforms others life.

Most of us, are striving for level I happiness and the other two can be achieved only when first level is achieved. All type of happiness brings positive emotions that are extremely necessary for a sound mental and physical health. When there is deprivation of happiness it leads to various illnesses like hearth diseases, hypertension, depression, anxiety, somatisation etc.  Introspection about what makes us happy is the first step to achieve happiness. Self regulation, self monitoring and healthy life style will definitely bring positive results in making life more happy and meaningful.