The A to Z of Happiness

Anya Pearse

Would you like to feel a little happier? Hey, don’t worry; you’re not alone. We all have times when we want life to be easier, and for things to feel less stressful. Positive Psychology - aka “the science of what makes life worth living” - suggests that, while our happiness levels have a “set point” we return to regardless of triumph or disaster, we also have the power to nudge that dial in a more positive direction. Anya Pearse is a facilitator and writer with an MSc in Applied Positive Psychology. She knows from study and lived experience how to overcome challenges and nudge herself towards feeling more resourceful, more resilient, more self-compassionate - and more happy. Each week, join her and producer Mark Steadman as they unpack the science of happiness one letter at a time, offering advice, resources, and a friendly voice to remind you that you're not alone.

  1. Thinking

    01/15/2024

    Thinking

    Our thinking has a powerful impact on our perception of the world and our own wellbeing. Our thoughts can shape our emotions, influence our behaviour, and even blind us to reality. By becoming aware of our thinking patterns and learning to observe our thoughts without judgment, we can gain more control over our mental states and make choices that align with our values. Understanding the relationship between our thoughts, emotions, and actions is key to cultivating happiness and improving our overall quality of life. Three prompts What is the story I’m telling myself?Is it true?Am I feeling my thinking?Resources When a Feeling Is Not Really a FeelingBrain meta-state transitions demarcate thoughts across task contexts exposing the mental noise of trait neuroticismInfluence of Neuroticism on Depressive Symptoms Among Chinese Adolescents: The Mediation Effects of Cognitive Emotion Regulation StrategiesBrené Brown on How to Reckon with Emotion and Change Your Narrative“Less commas and more full stops.” – Michael NeilPersonal, Permanent, PervasiveDaring Greatly: How the Courage to Be Vulnerable Transforms the Way We Live, Love, Parent, and Lead, by Brene BrownWhy Aren't We Awesomer? – Michael Neill, TEDxBendRising Strong, by Brene BrownFour Liberating QuestionsArnold Rimmer“This is the true joy in life” – George Bernard Shaw quoteThe Relationship Handbook: A Simple Guide to Satisfying Relationships, by George PranskyAnya Pearse, Intuitive advisor and her An Hour of KindnessMark Steadman

    45 min
  2. Self-compassion

    01/08/2024

    Self-compassion

    Practicing self-compassion is essential for our wellbeing. By cultivating self-kindness, recognising our shared humanity, and practicing mindfulness, we can free ourselves from self-judgment and shame. Self-compassion allows us to be there for ourselves, embrace our imperfections, and promote a healthier and more fulfilling life. In this episode, Anya and Mark explore the three pillars of self-compassion: self-kindness, common humanity, and mindfulness. Anya shares her personal experience with self-compassion and how it has been a game-changer for her. And they touch on the inner critic, fear of judgment, and the need for self-care. Three prompts What's stopping you from treating yourself with compassion?Are you kinder to others than you are to yourself?How can you be kinder to yourself right now, even just a little?Resources The Power of Vulnerability – Brené Brown’s TEDx talk from 2010Self-Compassion: The Proven Power of Being Kind to Yourself, by Kristin NeffThe Chimp Paradox: The Acclaimed Mind Management Programme to Help You Achieve Success, Confidence and Happiness, by Professor Steve PetersJeremy Bearimy: How Time Works in the AfterlifeIf (‘Brother Square-Toes’—Rewards and Fairies), by Rudyard KiplingSimon & Garfunkel - Bridge Over Troubled Water (Lyrics)Vast list of self-compassion researchWhat is self-compassion?What self-compassion is notSelf-compassion guided practices and exercisesAnya Pearse, Intuitive advisor and her An Hour of KindnessMark Steadman

    54 min

About

Would you like to feel a little happier? Hey, don’t worry; you’re not alone. We all have times when we want life to be easier, and for things to feel less stressful. Positive Psychology - aka “the science of what makes life worth living” - suggests that, while our happiness levels have a “set point” we return to regardless of triumph or disaster, we also have the power to nudge that dial in a more positive direction. Anya Pearse is a facilitator and writer with an MSc in Applied Positive Psychology. She knows from study and lived experience how to overcome challenges and nudge herself towards feeling more resourceful, more resilient, more self-compassionate - and more happy. Each week, join her and producer Mark Steadman as they unpack the science of happiness one letter at a time, offering advice, resources, and a friendly voice to remind you that you're not alone.