Singing the Blues? These 14 Scientific Strategies Will Make You Happier
During a deep depression, I searched for credible, proven ways to improve happiness. I found these tactics, all based on neuroscience and/or psychology.
Here’s how each method increases dopamine and/or serotonin, and why that’s critical. I also provide tips and suggestions for how to use them in your life!
The 5 Happiest Songs, According to Science
What are the happiest songs ever—and more importantly, why do they make us feel so good? I explore the stories and science behind 5 songs that increase dopamine in every listener’s brain.
Is Music Holding You Back, or Propelling You Forward?
A beautiful first date revealed some emotional realizations. We sometimes use music to relive the past, avoid the present, or keep ourselves on emotional loops. But we can also use it to escape the very traps we create for ourselves.
When I Used the Question as a Pickup Line
My resolve to take more chances was almost immediately tested. Here’s a story about unexpected attraction, and being #BoldDammit to make the first move. This music question doesn’t just reveal other people’s stories; it’s constantly shaping mine.
Only Another… 3 Years of Asking?!
After feeling discouraged by a perceived lack of progress on the journal, I set the goal of asking at least one person a day. Here’s how that change in approach created connections with different meaning.
I also share how the resulting discoveries helped me stop rushing to the destination of the finished project, and instead enjoy the process as a journey.
3 key takeaways:
The importance of shifting your focus from output to process
How and why that redefined my idea of success with the music project
How asking the question within my community helped me bond with my neighbors
How Firefighters Responded to My Musical Emergency
What started as a routine pitstop became one of my boldest moments so far—and I don’t just mean in the project. In this story, I find myself face-to-face with the chance to accomplish a lofty goal, and the choice between comfort and courage. It’s about timing, awkwardness, and the small but powerful magic of doing something you’re intimidated by.
3 takeaways:
You don’t always get the “perfect” opportunity to do something. Sometimes you just get the opportunity.
Feeling awkward or nervous doesn’t mean you’re doing it wrong; it often means you’re doing something meaningful. And you’re getting stronger just by pushing through the discomfort!
The more you practice showing up, the more natural courage becomes.