16 Dec 6 ways to live a happier and more exciting life
via Business Insider by Jon Levy
I have spent almost a decade trying to understand something that most people think doesn’t exist.
In the process, I have battled Kiefer Sutherland in drunken Jenga, crashed bachelorette parties for wild nights on the town, and been crushed by a bull during running of the bulls in Pamplona, Spain — all in order to understand what it takes to live a fun, exciting, and remarkable life. In other words, I study the science of adventure.
My research and wild stories are shared fully in my new book, “The 2 AM Principle: Discover the Science of Adventure,” which argues that adventures aren’t random. In fact, they are a process, and these six secrets will help you create your own and live a happier life.
1. Surround yourself with people who inspire you
You know the old adage that says you are the average of your five best friends? Well, it turns out that this is completely true. Research by Nicholas Christakis and James Fowler has found that everything from obesity to voting behavior to divorce and even happiness is spread across our social networks up to four degrees away.
In other words, if you have an obese friend, your chances of obesity increase by 45%, your friends’ chances increase by 25%, your friends’ friends’ by 10%, and your friends’ friends’ friends’ by 5%. If you want to live an exciting and remarkable life, select your friends based on the values that you admire.
Who you choose to spend your time with will define your world. So choose them wisely. If you keep hanging out with a drama queen, you will be miserable, and it will be contagious like the plague. Instead of drama, find fun-loving people who encourage you to step out of your comfort zone and grow as a person.
2. Say yes!
If something scares you but it won’t kill you, then do it. Instead of shying away from opportunities that put you out of your comfort zone, say yes. If you want to approach an attractive stranger, then strike up a conversation. If you think that bungee jumping looks fun but have always been nervous to try it yourself, take the leap.
Our brains respond to novel and exciting experiences. When we grow too familiar with locations or activities, they become boring. When we say yes to new opportunities, it can lead to more exciting experiences. You may not like everything you try, but taking on a yes attitude will give you a breadth of experience and can improve your life, relationships, and career…
…keep reading the full & original article HERE