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| Vol.3.78 | |
Fast Happyby Vince PoscenteAuthor of The Ant and the Elephant, Invinceable Principles and The Age of Speed In recent studies at Princeton and Harvard, researchers found that people who think fast create a better mood for themselves. So instead of whistling while you work (annoying for people who still have jobs in the other cubicles) or the power of positive thinking (I'm positive the economy sucks)... just kick your thinking into high gear.
Now, before you start brainstorming with the crossword guy on the train, fast thinking isn't a catchall solution. People with bipolar disorders need to avoid rushing thoughts to avoid manic feelings. That would be like feeding catnip to your hamster at 10 pm. Oh, and fast, repetitive thoughts aren't so good either. Pronin says this can trigger anxiety. Anxiety? Sheesh... I'd say it would trigger insanity. But, slow repetitive thoughts, such as a mantra in meditation, are healthy. I took it one step further. Try this: Women. Say "chocolate" 20 times as fast as you can (unless your bipolar, just eat it - and move on). Now say "chocolate" 10 times but make it last as long as you can. (Meowwww.) Guys. Say "bikini" 20 times fast and then slow 10 times. (Which way to the beach?) Now, if you are, in fact, in a cubicle at this moment, stand up and look at how many heads you see, staring at your cubicle, wondering what you're doing. Smile and sit down. It worked, didn't it? You're in a better mood. The point is, use techniques that work best for you. You, only you, manage your mood. Choose your activities that you do or words that you use wisely. I can't imagine saying "recession" fast or slow would do any good at all. But chocolate bikini? Now everybody's happy. Until next week it’s full speed ahead,
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© 2010 Vince Poscente. All Rights Reserved. |
The experiments had participants generate numerous problem-solving ideas in 10 minutes, watch I Love Lucy sped up plus quickly scan through ideas on a monitor - weighed against people doing the same tasks at a relaxed pace. In side-by-side comparisons, the fast thinkers felt more creative and elated while feeling more powerful and energetic. The conclusion by Emily Pronin, the study's lead author; energy and mood can be enhanced by activities such as a brisk brainstorming session or a quick and easy crossword puzzle. 