Loading ...Positive ThinkingAction Planning and the Matrix of Core Values
You’re ready to take action. You’re ready to make a change you think will improve your life. But how do you know if that change will actually make you happier?
As readers of my past articles have learned, my research has revealed that our overall level of happiness depends on 10 specific core values. These values interact in a matrix. This means that when we are thinking about a course of action we hope will enhance our happiness, we should also consider how this action will affect each of the other core values.
Consider, for example, a man who thinks making more money will improve his emotional well-being. He is considering starting a part-time business on evenings and weekends, in addition to his full time job.
While this appears as if it will improve his quality of life, it might also backfire. The time needed to run his business will leave less time to spend with his wife and children. Starting his business may lead to a higher level of satisfaction with respect to one core value, money. But his level of satisfaction with respect to the core values of companionship and intimacy may decline. The result: a net reduction in his overall happiness. Therefore, he should develop some other plan of action to make more money.
Next week I will show you how to use this matrix planning to determine whether a potential course of action really will lead you to higher levels of happiness.
[Ed. Note: Dr. Douglas Ramm is a psychologist, philosopher, author and leading researcher in the field of emotional well-being, contentment and life satisfaction. He has appeared on numerous radio and television talk shows where he shares insights for enhancing quality of life. Discover how to enhance yours here.]
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