Over the past 10 days, I have covered managing emotions by trying to maintain a neutral position from the centre of our consciousness. I have elaborated on the importance of imagination and how we should always continue to use it. I reflected on my home and the concept of what I believe a home is. Additionally, I have formulated a framework that I have been working on for a while, which I think could play a contributing factor in our search for happiness.

During the last two days of this segment, I spoke about the Break-line, the centre line in which we sway between negative and positive. It is the section in which we cross between opposites and last night, I had the privilege of seeing Dr. Robert Waldinger speak at the Powerhouse, and wrote about the study he currently directs. This study has contributed to the understanding of human emotions and drivers towards a happy life, as they have followed several hundred participants over 80+ years.

It is important to step back and evaluate the energy surrounding a situation to maintain distance and prevent being consumed by it, as sometimes misinterpreting or overanalysing an energy can lead to irrational decisions and a distorted perspective. I received a tenure award but felt unappreciated when my manager was unavailable to say any words of congratulations, leading me to reflect on my actual achievements, regardless of recognition and the importance of maintaining a neutral standpoint in emotion lead situations.

Imagination is a powerful tool that allows us to envision a fulfilling and joyful life, motivating us to pursue our dreams, overcome obstacles, and find true fulfillment.

I’ll always have a deep connection to New Zealand, and identify as a Kiwi and proud Māori, although living in Australia. As I’ve grown older and life has begun evolving, my understanding of home is that of a combination of physical locations and chosen connections, ultimately leading to the concept that happiness can be found in each and every home that we choose to create.

The most meaningful portion of my last 10 days is the roll out of a framework I have developed over the last few weeks. An idea in which I believe may contribute to people’s lives and over well-being and happiness. The traffic light framework is broken down into 3 phases.

The Red Light phase - Reflection, Internal Dialogue, and Introspection.

The Orange Light phase - Planning and Preparation to Progress and finally.

The Green Light phase - The Pursuit of Improvement. Overall, happiness is an individual pursuit and cannot be achieved through a one-size-fits-all solution, but the ability for reflection, introspection, and conscious goal-setting, followed by a forward thinking and disciplined roll out. These steps can contribute strongly towards personal growth and lasting happiness.

The break line is where our happiness, fulfillment, and purpose are found or lost. It is at the intersection where we make the choice, and it's the choice we make that determines the outcome. Does our consciousness and universal energy sit in the narrow space between yin and yang, observing our surroundings, evaluating our external influences, our internal emotions, and the voice inside our head? All of these factors and objects contribute to an intricate dance that helps pave the way through our lives.

Dr. Robert Waldinger's work and the Harvard Study offer valuable insights into what truly matters for a happy and fulfilling life. It reminds us that prioritizing meaningful connections, personal growth, and acts of kindness are essential components in our pursuit of the search for happiness.

The last 10 days for me have been full of experiences and growth, but the framework rollout has been a milestone factor in my search for happiness. The reflection of my journey so far, through creating my own framework to try and contribute to overall happiness, is a wonderful feeling. Whether it comes to fruition, evolves into something bigger, or impacts anyone, would be wonderful. But establishing the frame of mind for me is a point of progress which I am really proud of.

Thanks,

Dean