Thursday, April 3, 2008

don't worry, be happy?

Yes, we have therapists. And anti-stress body lotions. And the luxury of retail therapy.

But today's Americans "are little or no happier than earlier generations," this Wall Street Journal article reports.

I think unhappiness now is largely a result of the growing belief that it's OK, maybe even necessary, to ruminate in your sadness. Rather than simply moving on with life, we're encouraged to analyze why we're sad -- whether it be through self-help books, blogging or an out-of-town retreat.

While that stuff serves a purpose at times, I think it also has tremendous potential to backfire and only prolong sadness.

Wow. I am soo depressed now. Time for a chick flick.

Thoughts?