It seems years of research has found evidence that our brain works better when it is happy. Some people however trash this whole argument as a figment of imagination. They argue that those who are not happy even after repeated attempts do not pursue such research to present their story with evidence. Compelling argument.
Abraham Lincoln had said, "You are as happy as you make up your mind to be". One also finds that several scriptures assert that happiness is the innermost core of every individual.
This leads us to an important question. Is it possible that one can be happy regardless of where and to whom they are born? To many, it may appear like a heartless hypothetical question; given the kind of external situations possible.
There are however abstractions such as 'peer group' and 'social group'. For most people, there exists an interactive group which creates a context for perception. World may be divided into social classes but that does not necessarily interfere in our day to day transactions. It is the 'group' that matters more. For example, when people compare their own fortunes or achievements with others, they choose from among their 'peer group'. This choice is almost automatic and sub-consciously transmitted. The concept of 'groups' has made social media a powerful force as well - bringing sweeping changes.
Given this phenomenon, does a happy state of mind enable better performance? This is a key question. The answer perhaps is in exploring the 'habit' of happiness. A habit of happiness means every action is an expression of happiness. Outcome does not determine a person's enthusiasm. For such a person, even if the performance remains more or less the same as others, chances are: this person is perceived to have performed better. Author, Edward De Bono opines that about 80% of decisions in life are based on perceptions. The positive effect of such a person in any team is quite evident.
The tricky part however is, habits occur subconsciously. One can be happy once in a while but a 'habit of happiness' is a tall order. It may well be claimed that happy people (habitually happy) can be classified differently and they are not the same as other people.
Whatever be the version of research or scriptures, the whole question for us can be reduced thus: "Can I make happiness my habit and trait?" This may be highly subjective. But worth every attempt! Whether true or false/ works or not, there is a lot to gain in every effort.
A habit of happiness may well be the result of other aspects such as perceived 'meaning of life', 'meaningful goals' and 'self-concept'.
