Suggested Reading:
The Happiness Trap by Russ Harris, M.D. argues that humans are hardwired to pursue happiness, but this instinct can lead to chronic psychological distress. The book explains how chasing after happiness is a trap, and introduces Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) to help live a meaningful life guided by values.
Key Ideas in “The Happiness Trap”
- Humans are built to relentlessly seek positive feelings and avoid negative feelings. In pursuit of this ideal state, we instinctively attempt to eliminate uncertainty in our external and emotional worlds. However, this instinct for control often leads to anxiety, stress, and depression. The more we strive for happiness, the less happy we become.
- The book introduces Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT): an evidence-based therapy approach. Instead of fighting to control and avoid negative emotions, ACT teaches us to live with them. The goal is not immediate happiness but rather aligning our actions with our values in life.
- Rather than trying to eliminate negative feelings, we learn to accept and embrace them. Struggling against these emotions tends to make them worse. By acknowledging and allowing them, we can reduce their impact on our well-being.
- While we can’t always control our emotions, we can choose how to respond. ACT encourages us to act in alignment with our values, even when emotions are challenging.
The Core Processes of ACT
- Learning to accept emotions and thoughts without trying to change them.
- Learning to perceive thoughts and feelings as what they are, just words and emotions, not absolute truths.
- Being aware of the here and now, fully engaged in whatever you’re doing.
- Understanding the ‘observing self’ that is constant, even when thoughts and feelings change.
- Discovering what is truly important and meaningful to you.
- Taking effective action guided by your values.
