Positive Psychology – Minimalism and happiness, what is the connection?


Positive Psychology – Minimalism and happiness, what is the connection?

When talking about minimalism, we won’t as much go into what it is and is it the “right approach” to life – instead, we will look into minimalism as “…the constant art of editing your life.” (quote by Danny Dover) and “Minimalism is about creating space to live simply and meaningfully; it’s about living intentionally.” (quote by Laurie Buchanan).

We will focus not so much on the minimalism itself but on how do minimalism and related terms (such as intentional living, consumerism, freedom, hygge etc.) affect our happiness – and how can we play with them and use them for more enjoyment and satisfaction in our own lives.

As always, the format will be fairly loose and relaxed, facilitated discussion with a​ ​ range of questions to reflect on.

Depending on interests, we might look into questions such as:
– The ​connection between happiness and intentional living vs. letting go of control
– Consumerism and happiness
– Balance & gentleness vs extreme approaches
– What freedom means for you?
– Hygge vs. minimalism
– Individualism
– Best books/blogs and sources of inspiration on minimalism

And discuss some of the following ideas:

“I’ve found that the less stuff I own, the less my stuff owns me.” ― Nathan W. Morris

“Our excessive possessions are not making us happy. Even worse, they are taking us away from the things that do. Once we let go of the things that don’t matter, we are free to pursue all the things that really do matter.” ― Joshua Becker

“Own less stuff. Enjoy more freedom. It really is that simple.” ― Joshua Becker

You are welcome to bring more ideas and your opinions (as long as they loosely fit under the umbrella of today’s topic). The meet-up is free and will be in English. Please let us know you’re coming: https://www.meetup.com/nl-NL/Amsterdam-Positive-Psychology-Meetup/events/254477764/

27 November 2018

Free

Metabolic Lab

starts: 19:00

ends: 21:00