Research suggests that people are happier when they live a lifestyle that engages them with their unique skill set. For example, I really love helping people! I spent years of my life working at a job where I was alone nearly all day for 9 hour shifts. It was a good job, it paid well, and my bosses treated me fantastically. But, somehow, I was never as happy as I could be. I often found myself feeling mopey for no reason at all.
Research further suggests that up to 2/3 of people have no idea what they are good at. So, not only do they not engage in activity that stimulates these skills, they don't even know what these skills are!
Are you one of these people? May I recommend the via test to determine what psychologists call your "signature strengths"? You can take it here: https://www.viacharacter.org/Account/Register
In case you are curious my top three are humor, kindness and perseverance. Do I get to use these in my daily life pursuits? Absolutely! I would love to think I am a funny teacher, although my students may be laughing because they want an A (kidding, I hope). Kindness is a huge part of my life. I love showing kindness to everyone I meet--students, colleagues, friends, and, maybe the most fun, absolute strangers. Perseverance is also a big one for me. Nothing fuels my fire more than someone telling me that I cannot do something. Getting a PhD was not easy, just the 2 hour commute each way was brutal! But, I never gave up!
I encourage you to discover your signature strengths and then figure out how to make sure that they all play a big part in your life! Feel free to share them in a comment below!
Be happy my friends!!
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