#4: Which came first—happiness or success?

Welcome to Rich & Happy! This weekly newsletter is for high-achievers who want to level up their personal life to their professional one.

In each edition, you'll find tips and ideas to make your personal life as inspiring as your career. We'll talk about work-life balance, creating deeper relationships, performing with purpose and more. My goal is to help you succeed in all parts of your life, as much as you do when it comes to work.

It's time to use your skills in the right direction to create a meaning success and a purposeful life. Let's go!

🔬 CONTEXT

For ages, there's been a widely accepted belief that the path to happiness is paved with success. We were taught to strive for achievements, climb the career ladder, and accumulate wealth, all in the pursuit of that elusive happiness. But what if the equation is upside down? What if happiness is not the result of success but the precursor to it? Research from UC Riverside and Chapman University has brought this paradigm-shifting idea to the forefront. The evidence suggests that happiness often precedes and leads to career success, challenging the traditional narrative

🌟 Leader's Talk

Napoleon Hill, the legendary author of "Think and Grow Rich," once said, "Happiness is the key to success. If you love what you are doing, you will be successful." Hill understood that genuine success isn't merely a destination; it's an enriching journey. His wisdom underscores the idea that happiness is not just a byproduct of success; it's a driving force that propels us toward greater achievements.

🧬 Your Authentic Performance Coach

In our quest to understand the dynamics of happiness and career success, it's crucial to recognize that the two are intrinsically connected. One of the most important thing is to understand that happiness isn't a reward for your accomplishments; it's the fuel that propels you forward.

I feel I have to write it again:

❌ HAPPINESS IS NOT A REWARD FOR YOUR ACCOMPLISHMENTS

When you cultivate happiness, you cultivate success.

Some of us believe they'll be happy only when they reach specific goals, like getting a promotion or earning more money. This way of thinking can be tricky.

Relying on external success for your happiness can lead to disappointment.

Being positive and content can improve your performance at work, boost your income, and make your relationships better.

Instead of thinking of happiness as something you'll get in the future, see it as a force that can shape your life journey and make every part of your life better.

If you decide to use positivity and a growth mindset as your fuel, your will succeed 100% of the time.

🧠 Boost Your Mindset and Performance

Have you heard about "Happiness Advantage"? ✨

The "Happiness Advantage" is not just some abstract idea; it's a concrete and impactful tool that can transform your career, your relationships, and your entire life.

Research has shown that when you're in a positive and happy state of mind, your brain functions at its best. It's like having a mental advantage that boosts your cognitive abilities, creativity, and problem-solving skills. This means you can think more clearly, come up with innovative ideas, and tackle challenges more effectively.

When you're happy, you're also more motivated and resilient.

You approach tasks with enthusiasm and determination, making you more likely to achieve your goals.

But the benefits of the "Happiness Advantage" extend beyond the workplace.

When you're in a positive emotional state, your relationships tend to flourish. You're more likable, empathetic, and better at connecting with others. This can lead to more meaningful and fulfilling relationships, both personally and professionally.

Furthermore, happiness has a profound impact on your overall well-being.

It can reduce stress, boost your immune system, and even increase your lifespan. So, it's not just about feeling good; it's about living a healthier and longer life.

⚒️ Method

It's time to harness the "Happiness Advantage" with these ten practical steps:

1. Gratitude Journal (5 minutes daily): Write down three things you're thankful for each morning and why.

2. Positive Affirmations (2 minutes daily): Create confident statements and repeat them each morning.

3. Random Acts of Kindness (10 minutes weekly): Do something kind for someone once a week.

4. Mindfulness Meditation (5 minutes daily): Focus on your breath for 5 minutes daily.

5. Flow Activity (30 minutes weekly): Spend 30 minutes on a passion or challenge.

6. Connect with Others (15 minutes daily): Reach out to someone daily, even briefly.

7. Healthy Habit (15 minutes daily): Include a healthy habit daily.

8. Set Meaningful Goals (10 minutes weekly): Review goals and take one action step weekly.

9. Resilience Practice (10 minutes weekly): Learn from recent challenges.

10. Reflect and Adjust (10 minutes weekly): Review your progress and adjust your plan weekly.

👀 Visual of the Week

🤌 Ending Thoughts

Remember that your pursuit of success doesn't have to come at the expense of happiness. In fact, it's quite the opposite.

By nurturing your happiness, you're not only setting yourself up for a fulfilling journey but also increasing your odds of achieving the success you desire.

👋 See you next week, and don't forget:

🥇 The #1 habit you need in your life is the habit of checking up on YOU!

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If you'd like to connect with me, please do so here: Lucie Lachaux