DrRoberta Rob complained that he never felt truly happy. I told him that people tend to feel good and feel happy when engaged in activities that please them. Rob needed help in figuring out what gave him joy. He used the following list to help him decide how to spend his free time.
Do you like to:
- Shop ‘til you drop?
- Swim?
- Take a class?
- Travel and sightsee?
- Visit family?
- Visit museums?
- Watch movies?
- Watch TV?
- Read?
- Do you prefer to be with a group, or with just one person, or by yourself?
- Do you prefer to spend most of your time outdoors or indoors?
- Do you need music to be in a good mood?
- Do you need Internet access to be in a good mood?
- Are you more comfortable talking to people who share your opinions or those who have different values?
- Are you cautious or impulsive? Careless or careful?
- Do you have the quiet strength of a shy person or are you an extrovert?
- Do you do your best planning ahead or is spontaneity good for you?
- Do you enjoy intense emotional connections?
- Do you like to lean on others or do you like to lead others?
Like Rob, you are the expert on yourself. Becoming aware of your needs will inspire you to include more of certain activities in your life.
The hypnotic suggestion that worked for Rob is:
Include activities that are good for you when you plan your daily and weekly schedule. Avoid situations that are not consistent with your needs. When you identify what you need you will then find suitable activities and your happiness level will rise.
