Some research studies have shown the Westerners, despite years of improving economic conditions, are generally no happier than they were, and continue to seek the answers to their lack of happiness, through the masses of pop psychology offerings.

Psychologists who study happiness inform us that there are essentially three main types:

1. Happiness from pleasurable pursuits that gratify the senses such as good food and wine, and of-course sexual gratification;
2. Happiness comes from being fully engaged in an enjoyable activity so that you lose the sense of time. For some this may be fishing, or playing a sport, or even just listening to your favorite music;
3. Happiness comes from giving, from altruistic behavior. Being involved in altruistic actions has also been shown to change our brain chemistry. It actually changes who we are.

While the first two types are somewhat culturally dependent, the third is very much the same in its impact and effectiveness across all cultures, genders, and ages. The third type of happiness is also most often promoted by religious philosophies and groups. Thus religions generally add meaningful happiness (though clearly there are exceptions to this). Meaningful happiness appears to extend the length of someone's life as well.

This course will share and expand upon Rabbi Jonathan Sack’s Ten Happiness Principles, These principles are not just sweet sentiments, sugary illusions, or even the power of positive thinking. They do not declare that we simply need to become beautiful, wealthy, and successful. Rather, these ten principles are all based around a life of values, meaning, and significance. These are eternal principles.

I believe that these 10 Happiness Principles are 10 action steps that are foundational to a good and happy life.