06 Apr Happiness is … loving differences!
A big part of happiness is connection.
Whether you look at the happiness or positive psychology research, or studies in health and wellbeing and even longevity, one of, if not THE MOST important variables is always positive relationships, community, belonging, friendship.
And because we’re all different, friendships and intimate relationships will involve differences – different opinions and different ways of thinking, different choices and different perspectives on issues as diverse as politics and world events, through to what tastes and looks good!
Which brings me back to the sentiment in the title of this post … happiness is in loving differences.
If you value a relationship, whether with a partner or colleague, friend or relative, it’s important to value that relationship regardless of MOST differences. There may well be some differences that can’t be ignored, but more often than not the practice of acceptance is vital for healthy and loving connections.
More so, in addition to just accepting differences of opinion or different ways of thinking, embracing these differences can be valuable. Embracing different ways of thinking and learning from them can bring about growth and greater tolerance, understanding and compassion, all of which are important contributors to … happiness!