Everyone goes through life in search of happiness. We work to relieve pain, experience pleasure, and reach our goals to be satisfied with our life.

But what if we are already pretty happy? Does it serve a purpose to work to find ultra-happiness?

Many believe that success leads to happiness. This sends us on a mission to achieve more, be more, and do more in the name of happiness and living life to the fullest.

If I can only have this job, make this much money, and live in this house, then I’ll finally be satisfied with my life.

Research has shown that satisfaction with life is a major indicator of success, or in other words, happier people tend to be more successful in certain life domains. Though on closer observation, very high levels of satisfaction can actually limit the achievement of our full potential in certain domains.

If I’m satisfied with the life I have, what’s the point of striving for more?

Welcome to Adventures in Positive Psychology with Joe Wilner, MA, a blog about positive psychology. You’ve probably heard a thing or two about positive psychology in the past decade, because of its focus on helping people to better understand themselves and their lives to increase happiness. Sure, life can be challenging sometimes and many face a mental health concern. But that’s no reason you shouldn’t be seeking personal growth all of your life too, and find ways to increase your happiness and well-being.

Joe Wilner has a Masters Degree in Psychology and a Masters in Liberal Arts, with a concentration in Management and Leadership. Joe is a certified meditation instructor through the American Institute of Health Care Professionals (AIHC) as well as a certified coach practitioner through the Certified Coaches Federation (CCF). He is the Founder of Aspire to Grow, an organization providing coaching and training to assist students in career planning and the development of social and emotional intelligence. You can learn more about Joe here.

Please give Joe a big Psych Central welcome! I look forward to reading more about his take on positive psychology and how we can learn to become happier and most positive in our own lives!