On today's episode, McKay explores the concept of happiness, including where to find it, and how to hold on to it. To intoduce this rather expansive topic, he opens up the show by reviewing Elizabeth Smart's story - her brutal experience getting kidnapped and raped, and her journey toward happiness. McKay says that, while it's true that happiness is partially dependent upon circumstance, we can also attribute a large portion of our happiness to dedication, the people who raised us, and those with whom we surround ourselves.

He goes on to introduce more conditions for happiness, noting that, when we have admirable intentions and goals in our lives, for example, we find more daily satisfaction. Even the love we share and receive plays a large role in how content we are. McKay draws this highly positive podcast episode to a close by reminding the audience to find joy in the little things, and by offering this invaluable advice: “Stay poised in tough situations—good will prevail. Exercise. Serve. Have Faith. Be humble and watch…. You will be happy.”

The Finer Details of This Episode:

• Elizabeth Smart’s journey
• Happiness dependent on circumstances
• Set happiness
• Taylor Swift’s NYU speech
• The value of intention
• Love and happiness
• Darren’s happy landing
• Focusing on the little things

Quotes:

"As the days passed, she started to realize that this may be her new way of life.”

“He has taken 9 months of your life that you will never get back, but the best punishment you could ever give him is to be happy.”

“Happiness is a choice.”

“Married people report a slightly higher happiness level than single people. In research, 25 percent of married people and 21 percent of single people say they are very happy. In short, circumstances such as wealth or marital status only impact our happiness in small ways.”

“We get more from our parents than eye color and facial features. We may get a large set of our happiness from them or from others. How we grew up or who we have interacted with throughout our life, does dictate our level of happiness.”

“People with aspirations have higher energy levels, stronger immune systems, stronger mental health and feelings of self-confidence and self-esteem.”

“I agree with the researchers. I believe happy people see the best, even in the toughest situations. They are empowered with poise and optimism.”

“Remember, that only 10 percent of happiness depends on circumstances. Fifty percent is heritable. So be a person who sees, talks about and shares the good in life. You can pass on the habit of happiness to others and be a blessing to them.”

“Focusing on the small things in life that bring you joy.”

Links:

Open Your Eyes with McKay Christensen