Happy Nation is based on two basic ideas
- 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.
- 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.
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Lonely frog meets his match
When a lonely frog consults a fortune-teller, he’s told not to worry. “You are going to meet a beautiful young girl,” she says, “and she will want to know everything about you.” “That’s great!” says the excited frog. “When will I meet her?” “Next semester,” says the psychic, “in biology class.”
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Giving to the poor
A little girl asked her mother for a dollar to give to an old lady in the park. Her mother was touched by the child’s kindness and gave her the required sum. “There you are, my dear,” said the mother. “But, tell me, isn’t the lady able to work any more?” “Oh yes,” came the […]
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Engineers 2: Accountants 0
Three engineers and three accountants are travelling by train to a conference. At the station, the accountants watch as the engineers buy only a single ticket between them. “How can 3 people travel on only one ticket?” asks an accountant. “Just watch,” says an engineer. They all board the train. The accountants take their seats […]
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A rare compliment
John was furious when his steak arrived too rare. “Waiter,” he shouted, “Didn’t you hear me say, ‘well done’?” “Oh, thank you, sir,” replied the waiter. “I hardly ever get a compliment.”
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Micro-tunnelling
A while back I was reading an engineering magazine which contained an advertisement for “microtunnelling”. I wondered what microtunnelling was until I realised it was a little bit boring.
Stephanie Hills
Promoting Individual and Social Happiness