Why happiness is like a stray cat

Could the pursuit of happiness make you less happy? [Mindvalley Logo]     Happiness is like a stray cat in an alleyway. Try to approach it, and it tends to scuttle off into the shadows. But if you ignore it, it has a way of coming to you when you least expect it. Now, this is more than just a cute, ‘feel-good’ analogy. Surprisingly, this is actually backed up by science. In a study led by psychologist Dr. Iris Mauss of The University of California, she found that people who strongly valued happiness, and actively sought it out, were often less happy than others. They were even shown to be more prone to depression. Now, that’s quite the dilemma… We all want to be happy. And yet, pursuing it makes us less happy. So what’s the solution? According to our newest author and Harvard University professor, Dr. Tal Ben-Shahar, the key is to pursue happiness… indirectly. Intrigued? Check out the trailer for our newest Quest on Mindvalley with Dr. Tal Ben-Shahar on [The 5 Elements of Happiness]( and you’ll understand what he means.   [Mindvalley University](   In Tal’s new 13-day Quest, you’ll discover his powerful SPIRE method for cultivating happiness without directly pursuing it. And when you learn how to apply this method, you’ll not only notice your levels of happiness, bliss and joy skyrocket – but you’ll see it permeate other areas of your life in profound ways. For example, you may find you’re be able to:   - Nurture deeper relationships: Increasing happiness makes you more approachable, likable, and empathetic, leading to meaningful connections with others. - Enjoy better health: Research shows that happier people have lower rates of chronic disease, better immune function, and increased longevity. - Boost your career: There’s a reason why many companies are investing in their employee’s happiness. Because the more content you are, the more focused and productive you become. - Unleash your creativity: As you experience more bliss, your mind becomes more open to new possibilities, leading to brilliant ideas. - Overcome adversity gracefully: While happiness doesn't eliminate life's highs and lows, it does increase resilience, allowing setbacks to be brushed off with ease.   If you’d like to learn more about mastering the science of happiness, I think you’d absolutely love Dr. Tal Ben-Shahar’s teachings. [Visit this page to explore The 5 Elements of Happiness Quest >>](   [Mindvalley Logo]( 14525 SW Millikan Way #31545 Beaverton, OR 97005-2343 [Get it on Google Play]( [Download on the App Store]( [Mindvalley on Facebook]( [Mindvalley on Twitter]( [Mindvalley on Instagram]( [Mindvalley on Youtube]( [Mindvalley on Whatsapp]( [Mindvalley on Telegram]( [Mindvalley on Linkedin]( [Support Center]( Policy](