Afraid of Happiness? Barf!

by Richard C. Raynard, Ph.D.
Licensed Clinical Psychologist

Two recent studies (Joshanloo and Gilbert) claim to show that feeling good is what scares some people, as measured in 14 different cultures. These findings need clarification, before they go viral, or something worse.

First, the items of their test more accurately describe a "fear of being disappointed". Two of the items are, "My good feelings never last" and "If you feel good, you let your guard down".

Second, "Happiness" is never defined. This is surprising since the psych literature is rife with attempts to define happiness, from plainly sensual delights to lasting satisfactions.

Common sense tells you that if you try to be happy with bling or the latest thing, the satisfaction won't last long. The same for sheer thrills. The point is that in lumping all such satisfactions under Happiness, guarantees that many will distrust and fear quickly passing satisfactions, while doing no justice to the lasting ones.

My solution for my clients who want to clarify what makes them happy is my Personal Fulfillment Survey. I truly feel I don't know what motivates them until I tune into what they love and gives meaning to their lives.

Here is the major outline of the Personal Fulfillment Survey:

All kinds

• Thrills and impulses
• Sensual delights
• Simple pleasures
• Addictions
• Satisfying duties
• Basic needs
• Looking good
• Vital interests
• Enduring satisfactions
• What gives most meaning

So, kick up your heels, gaze out the window, take the time to reflect on your own experience, and see how you would survey your own world of happiness. I wish you the courage to do this, too.

At least you won't be prey to ideas like "afraid of happiness".  Any comment?

About Dr. Raynard
Dr. Richard Raynard is a licensed clinical psychologist with 35 years experience resolving a broad range of emotional problems. As a cognitive-behavioral therapist who has specialized in anxiety and phobic disorders since 1980, he has spent the last 35 years fulfilling his life-long desire to explore and define the true purpose of emotions and how people can easily use emotions to create meaning and satisfaction in their lives. Dr. Raynard's series of books on emotions can be found on Amazon.com. His other books include Don't Panic, and Anxiety & Panic Medications.