Tuesday 26 June 2012

Ron Gutman: The hidden power of smiling

Ron Gutman reviews a raft of studies about smiling, and reveals some surprising results. Did you know your smile can be a predictor of how long you'll live - and that a simple smile has a measurable effect on your overall well-being? Prepare to flex a few facial muscles as you learn more about this evolutionarily contagious behavior.

Ron Gutman is the founder and CEO of HealthTap, a personalized health-info site that's currently in beta. He's also the organizer of TEDxSiliconValley.

Happiness Fact #8 - Our happiness is not set in stone


Although our genes influence about 50% of the variation in our personal happiness, our circumstances (like income and environment) affect only about 10%.

As much as 40% is accounted for by our daily activities and the conscious choices we make. So the good news is that our actions really can make a difference.

Monday 25 June 2012

“Always smile; it makes people wonder what you’re up to.” - Anon

Friday 22 June 2012

How happy is your work?

The happiness at work survey is unlike any other work survey.

Do you get to do what you do best?
Do you feel trusted to do a good job?
When were you last asked good questions about your experience of work?

The happiness at work survey does, and it uniquely gives you instant access to your own results. They are presented in a clear and colourful way that is interactive and insightful. There is also advice on how to make your work happier.
Do you enjoy your work?

Tuesday 19 June 2012

Smiling faces from Barrow town centre

 

 

Happiness Fact #7 - Mindfulness changes your brain


Recent research has shown that an 8 week mindfulness meditation class can lead to structural brain changes including increased grey-matter density in the hippocampus, known to be important for learning and memory, and in structures associated with self-awareness, compassion and introspection.

Visit www.bemindful.co.uk and www.mindfulnet.org to find out more.

Tuesday 24 April 2012

Happiness Fact #6 - Happiness leads to success

Most people think that if they become successful, then they'll be happy. But recent discoveries in psychology and neuroscience show that this formula is backward: Happiness fuels success, not the other way around.

When we're positive, our brains are more motivated, engaged, creative, energetic, resilient and productive.

Wednesday 11 April 2012

All smiles at the Love Barrow Awards



The Junior Wardens are all smiles after receiving their trophy at the Love Barrow Awards 2012.

Thursday 5 April 2012

“A day without laughter is a day wasted.” Charlie Chaplin
“Don't cry because it's over, smile because it happened.” Dr Seuss