Happy Nation is based on two basic ideas

  1. Focussing on what makes us happy can bring us to greater heights of joy and fulfilment than focussing solely on the problems we wish to solve. This is the philosophy inherent in Positive Psychology.
  2. Happiness, like any other emotional state, is not an isolated phenomenon – it affects, and is affected by, the people around us. To reach fulfilment we must work towards enhancing the happiness of all, using love, compassion and gratitude. This social happiness philosophy is consistent with the principles of Deep Ecology.

Stephanie Hills has thirty years’ experience working with people in distress, both as a social worker and a counsellor.

A large part of her work has comprised using narrative and art therapy to help people move on from depression. While still helping people facing difficulties, Stephanie’s work has broadened to include the promotion and enhancement of individual and social happiness.

Using the principles of Positive Psychology and Deep Ecology, she assists individuals and groups to improve their functioning in various life spheres, taking into account the social, cultural, economic and environmental context of people’s lives.

  • Lighthearted stories

    A man goes into a pet shop and asks, “Do you have any dogs going cheap?” The salesman says, “No, only our birds go cheep. Our dogs go WOOF!” * * * * I went to the cemetery yesterday and there were 4 pall bearers walking around with a coffin. An hour later they were […]

  • Be the Change or Take Action

    Paulo Coelho said, “The world is changed by your example, not by your opinion.” Not surprising, since most of our opinions relate to what other people should do – people who are largely unaffected by what we think. Also, we’re usually far more comfortable expressing our opinions to people who agree with us, or people […]

  • Help not needed

    If we see a stranger in trouble, it’s good to stop and help – but sometimes we can get it wrong.  The other day as I pulled into my street, I saw a motorcycle on its side and its rider sprawled out on a grassy bank by the side of the road. Immediately I pulled […]

  • Upbeat, No Matter What

    Happiness is good for your health and your social life, but how do you stay cheerful when life gets difficult?  Luckily, there are ways of keeping yourself in good mental and emotional shape. This workshop covers practical ways to maintain wellbeing as well as ways of thinking about your challenges that can ensure you don’t […]

  • Thanks for your service

    An older gentleman works for a Bunnings store, helping direct customers at the entrance. He’s a great success with customers and staff. He has an easy way with people and everyone loves him. He has just one fault: he is late for work nearly every morning. When it’s time for the manager to call him […]

Stephanie Hills

Promoting Individual and Social Happiness

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