I’ve always imagined that knowledge is sorted into pyramids. Each pyramid represents a different subject. Each layer is supported by the layer below it and supports the layer above it (except for the bottom and top layers, of course).
When you start learning a new topic, a new pyramid is formed. Its base is the fundamentals of the subject you intend to learn. After all, you cannot learn from the middle layer if you lack the layers beneath it.
I have dedicated much of my life to studying happiness: what it is and what makes us happy.
It makes no sense for me to try to teach you what I have learned about the many layers of my “pyramid of happiness.” I could try to convince you that happiness flows from the inside out and is not a reaction to external events.
Instead, I will teach you a simple exercise from the bottom of my “pyramid of happiness” so that you can learn to carry happiness with you wherever you go.
There are only three simple steps. Ready?
- Close your eyes and explore your memories. Try to find a happy memory -something that happened to you that made you happy at the time. Burn this memory into your mind so that you can easily locate it in the next step.
- Every day, close your eyes again and locate the memory from Step 1. Try to recall that memory as quickly as possible and with as many details as possible.
- Once you can quickly locate the selected memory from step 1 with many details, begin step 3. Concentrate on the happiness you experienced at that time. Relive that moment of happiness. Feel it tingling inside. Feel it grow bigger. Feel it take over you. Feel it surround you. Feel it make you truly happy. Repeat step 3 until you can easily and quickly access that happiness whenever you need it.
Now, you have the ability to experience happiness wherever you are. Just close your eyes and recall a special memory that made you happy. You can carry that happiness with you wherever you go.
Give it a try and see what happens!
Stay educated, stay happy,
Aviram