Optimal Being

There are two types of happiness, hedonic and eudaimonic.  While both support life satisfaction, research shows they serve unique purposes and are expressed in different brain regions.  Eudaimonic happiness also appears to be more sustainable and seems to cultivate certain health benefits. T here’s a common perception that entrepreneurs and small business owners are overworked and stressed out. Both of those things can be true on occasion. At the same time, 94% of small business owners  say they are happy with their lives , and 81% attribute this happiness to their entrepreneurship. The former value easily tops employees’ self-reported happiness. In a  2012 survey of 11,000 graduates of the Wharton MBA  program, respondents running their own businesses ranked themselves the most content. “Entrepreneurship” even dominated “income” as a predictor of happiness. The reason for this may be that entrepreneurship stokes a type of happiness called “eudaimonic happiness....

Have you ever wondered if the place you call home is truly conducive to your overall well-being?   Ayurveda, the ancient Indian system of medicine, suggests that the climate of your surroundings can significantly impact your health. In essence, the location you choose to live in can either support or hinder your journey to a balanced state of well-being. Ayurveda emphasizes the connection between climate and the three doshas—Vata, Pitta, and Kapha —each of which represents a unique combination of the five elements (earth, water, fire, air, and ether). Your current state, known as vikruti, plays a crucial role in determining the ideal climate for you, while your natural tendencies, or prakriti, also hold significance in this equation. Let’s delve into Ayurvedic wisdom to explore the best climates for each dosha: 1. Vata Dosha: Ideal Climate: Warm, moist, and not too windy. Best Locations: Tropics with lush growth; avoid windy islands or cold, dry, windy plains. For those with a pred...

Researchers have unearthed a significant factor in personal goal achievement: the phenomenon of “shared reality” with instrumental others. These findings, published in the  Journal of Personality and Social Psychology , offer fresh insights into the age-old question of why some individuals attain their objectives more readily than others. Shared reality   refers to the perception of sharing inner states – feelings, beliefs, or concerns – with others regarding the world. This concept goes beyond mere liking or closeness in relationships. It involves creating a common understanding of external events, people, and objects, which is crucial for navigating and succeeding in the world.   Instrumental others   refers to individuals in our lives who significantly aid or facilitate our ability to achieve our goals. These can be mentors, colleagues, friends, family members, or any other key figures who actively contribute to our journey towards success.   Traditionally, p...