"Most of our behavior, including social interaction is the result of us responding automatically to the world around us rather than the outcome of conscious decision-making and in this sense, it's more realistic to see ourselves as integrally connected to the social and natural world rather than as a separate, wholly autonomous entity. The research is clear, if you want to be a happier person don't read a self-help book. Just have happier friends." ~Matthew Taylor , Chief Executive of the RSA.~While the 1st sentence of that paragraph, if digested by every child educated now, might lead to a super-bright future of the humanity. I will concentrate on the second one.
Turns out that this 'just' is a huge deal.
Social wisdom, especially in the form that most of us have: 'YOLO' and 'carpe diem'-style quotes, high values etc, or even practical applicable advice, can merely help us in our existing relationships, and proves totally insufficient for making new friends or replacing bad habits with good ones.
So, since no text or movie or song can do the trick, is there anything that could?
Matthew claims, there is. "Have happier friends". OK, yes, but that's more of a goal than an easy task towards happiness. So here is what works for me: Physically moving, interacting with people, walking outside, using my hands, using pens & paper, kitchen utensils, musical instruments, playing with kids, arts and crafts, water pipes and diagrams, inviting people I barely know to events & activities, cleaning up, trying to listen, not wearing headphones when in the city so that I can process the world around me. Some of these actions are quite difficult since I'm not a very social person. But you may find it easier. Good luck.
I had to watch many times this video, take notes and google the terms, the studies and the points. There is highly condensed awesomeness in here, ingeniously animated by Andrew Park but still difficult for the spectators to absorb, not to mention actually apply its magic.
Cheers :-)
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