John Schinnerer Ph.D.

Guide to Self, Inc.

What are some things that make you happy?

I started a list to share with my clients. This is a list that may be used to distract oneself from negative thoughts and feelings if one so desires. This is only a partial list. It is still in the infancy stage. I would love your input. Please add what makes you happy (or proud, or awestruck, or loved, etc.) below in the comments section.

Positive emotions might include happiness, pride, curiosity, awe, gratitude, hope, compassion, anticipation, interest, curiosity, love, pleasure, satisfaction, contentment or relaxation. Feel free to add any others!

The List of Experiences That Make You Happy

Birth of child

Birth of animal (e.g. puppies, kittens)

Competing in a game (e.g. soccer, tennis, water polo, football, baseball)

Winning a game

Playing the game with honor

Promotion at work

Promotion at school (e.g. higher grade)

Reaching a short-term goal (e.g. saving up $10 for a toy)

Reaching a medium-term goal (e.g. losing 10 pounds)

Reaching a long-term goal (e.g. earning $1 million)

Achieving a milestone (e.g. finishing high school or college)

Taking pride in watching your child attain a significant milestone (e.g. first step, first job, driver’s license, marriage, birth of grandchild)

Watching your child perform a big accomplishment (e.g. great grades, athletic accomplishment, academic degree, important job)

Being thanked by your child for being their parent (any show of gratitude by your child really!)

Observing the degree to which you have grown over the years (e.g. emotionally, mentally, physically, work-related)

Completing a book or manuscript or play

Finishing a work of art (e.g. poem, painting, sculpture, picture, movie)

Being in nature

Being fully in the present moment

Enjoying pleasant memories

Relishing future feats

Coming face-to-face with a non-threatening wild animal (e.g. sea turtle, deer, moose, but NOT a bear!)

Receiving an award or honor
Being in the zone/fully engaged

Being appreciated for your hard work

Being appreciated for your unconditional love

Sexual pleasure

Savoring a delicious meal or drink

Savoring sunsets

Taking in a full moon

Anticipating an upcoming pleasurable event

Exercise

Reuniting with a person you haven’t seen in years

Hugs

Looking forward to your thoughts!

Best,
John Schinnerer, Ph.D.

Founder [1] Guide to Self

Anger management classes now being offered online at [2] http://drjohnsblog.wordpress.com.

Get a free copy of John’s award-winning self-help book (Guide to Self) at [3] www.GuidetoSelf.com!!!