Issue date: 11/5/08 Section: News

Several evidence-based approaches to building lasting happiness were also presented. PsySSR Secretary, Melinda Montgomery, spoke about keeping a Gratitude journal. The Gratitude journal would be written at night, containing three things that happened to you throughout the day and the causes of these things. If this is done for at least two weeks, and reviewed, you will start to see how much you have to be thankful for. It would be another way to count your blessings by taking away the negative, and seeing how much it out ways the positive. Keep the journal for as long as possible and see how your life begins to take a positive change in a new direction. UDC senior, Damon Hunt, colorfully described Seligman's (2002) ABCDE model for disputing negative beliefs as a second strategy for building happiness. Increasing your Happiness Quotient is not difficult but requires conscientious effort. A few things to help are: Challenging negative thoughts, using your signature character strengths, becoming more engaged in what you do, seeking meaning in your life, counting your blessings, performing acts of kindness, learning to forgive, investing in friends and family, and taking care of your body. (See C. Wallis [January 17, 2005]. The symposium was informative, helpful, and presented well by Dr. Dockett and PsySSR. As student Debbie Spencer commented, "I really enjoyed the program. I had fun and now I know ways of becoming a happier person."

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