The How of Happiness 6—Coping Skills

Positive psychology guru Sonja Lyubormirky’s new book The How of Happiness: A Scientific Approach to Getting the Life You Want reveals the University of California professor’s research-based tactics for taking control of the 40 percent of happiness and joy within our control. Here, we'll share her advice in an ongoing series:

THE HOW OF HAPPINESS
Step 6: Develop Coping Skills

By Sonja Lyubomirsky

No life is without stress or adversity. Fortunately, most of the strategies that help you to be happier also help you to manage life's lowest ebbs. Those who manage to find benefit among the pain, when faced with even the most serious traumas such as the loss of a loved one, cope better.

—Remember that post-traumatic growth and happiness is not the same as being joyful and carefree. Most survivors acknowledge that they feel a great deal of distress at the same time as reporting strengthening and progress.

—Social support is crucial to coping. Friends, family and partners give you a place to share your feelings and see the event with a new perspective, so talk to them.

—More and more research shows that writing it all down can be hugely beneficial. Spend at least 15 minutes a day writing down your worries.


—Hug more.


The How of Happiness: A Scientific Approach to Getting the Life You Want
By Sonja Lyubomirsky
Penguin Press HC
Hardcover
Dec. 27, 2007
ISBN-10: 159420148X
ISBN-13: 978-1594201486
available from booksellers everywhere and Amazon.com