Key To Happiness
Have you ever stopped to think about what truly influences your happiness, well-being, and even your financial future? According to some fascinating research cited in an article on Inc.com, it all boils down to one simple word: agency.
In the words of the article's author, Jeff Haden, "Having a strong sense of controlling one's life is a more dependable predictor of positive feelings of well-being than any of the objective conditions of life we have considered." That's a powerful statement backed by science.
Now, you might be scratching your head and wondering, "What on earth is agency?" Well, let's talk about it.
Imagine you're a pilot back in the 1950s, flying high-risk missions where the odds of survival weren't exactly in your favor. Despite the danger, many pilots willingly took on these challenges because they believed in their ability to navigate through adversity. That's agency in action – the belief that you have control over your circumstances, even in the face of uncertainty.
Fast forward to today, and we're still grappling with similar cognitive biases. Take, for example, the fear of our children being abducted. Statistically speaking, as mentioned in the Inc.com article, the odds are incredibly slim, yet many of us lose sleep over this remote possibility. It's the same reason we buy lottery tickets despite knowing the chances of winning are next to none – because the potential payoff is so enticing that we're willing to overlook the odds.
But here's the kicker: agency isn't just about perception; it's about action. It's about taking ownership of our choices and embracing the risks that come with them.
Let's talk about entrepreneurship. Sure, working for someone else might seem like the safer option, but it also limits your potential for growth. As many people who have spent two decades in the corporate world, can tell you firsthand that job security is a myth. No matter how hard you work, there's always a chance you could be let go at a moment's notice.
On the flip side, starting your own business is like being a test pilot. Yes, there's a higher risk of failure, but there's also the opportunity to soar to new heights. And contrary to popular belief, as highlighted in the Inc.com article, age is actually an advantage in the world of entrepreneurship. Studies have shown that middle-aged entrepreneurs are more likely to succeed than their younger counterparts, thanks to their wealth of experience and knowledge.
But perhaps the most compelling argument for embracing agency is its direct correlation to happiness. As the Inc.com article points out, research has consistently shown that having a sense of control over your life is a key predictor of well-being. In other words, money might buy you freedom, but it's agency that truly brings fulfillment.
So, if you've been toying with the idea of starting your own business or pursuing a passion project, I say go for it. Sure, there may be bumps along the way, but the sense of empowerment you'll gain from taking control of your destiny is worth it.
Remember, life is too short to play it safe. Embrace your agency, and watch as your happiness and success soar to new heights.
Interested in reading the full article? https://www.inc.com/jeff-haden/research-shows-your-overall-happiness-well-being-even-financial-future-comes-down-to-1-simple-word.html
