I Choose to be Happy, the 5th Decision

As I continue this read (The Traveler’s Gift), my mind sometimes wonders to experiences I have had, or I compare things to either the same or the opposite reactions.  Follow me for a second.  Everyone remembers a teacher that affected their lives, someone that just seemed to know the right things to say and the right way to act or react to situations.  I know I could throw out a few names of people that helped make me become who I am today.  I know you can too.  I know I have made the choice along time ago not to be stressed, not to get mad and have been rewarded because of it.  This is the same, you have a choice to make, it is a choice to be happy!

The decision to choose to be happy can have a significant impact on individuals in different roles I have addressed in the earlier decision, such as teachers, dads, athletes, and coaches. Here are some possible ways that this decision can influence their lives:

  • Teachers: For teachers, choosing to be happy can help them to approach their work with a positive attitude, even when faced with difficult students or challenging situations. This can make a significant difference in how they connect with their students and how effective they are in their teaching. Happy teachers are also more likely to inspire their students and create a positive learning environment.
  • Dads: Being a parent can be tough, and dads who choose to be happy can bring a sense of positivity and joy to their families. This can help them to create strong bonds with their children, and be a positive role model for them. Choosing to be happy can also help dads to navigate the ups and downs of parenting with a sense of perspective and resilience.
  • Athletes: Athletes who choose to be happy can enjoy their sport more fully and approach it with a sense of playfulness and enjoyment. This can help them to perform better, as they are more likely to be relaxed and focused. Choosing to be happy can also help athletes to maintain a sense of balance and perspective, even when dealing with the pressure of competition.
  • Coaches: For coaches, choosing to be happy can help them to create a positive team culture and inspire their athletes to perform to the best of their abilities. Happy coaches are more likely to be effective leaders, as they can inspire their athletes to work hard and achieve their goals. Choosing to be happy can also help coaches to handle setbacks and challenges with a sense of resilience and determination.

Overall, choosing to be happy can have a positive impact on individuals in many different roles, helping them to enjoy their work and personal lives more fully, and to inspire those around them to do the same.

I am staying up to write a bit longer article not only because I feel I need to but I want to research on how happiness effects these people (teachers, coaches athletes and dads).

Here is what I found:

#1 as a Teacher:

Choosing to be happy can have a positive impact on teachers and educators, both in their personal lives and in their professional work. Teachers who choose to be happy are more likely to create a positive and supportive classroom environment, which can lead to better student engagement, improved learning outcomes, and greater overall satisfaction.

Here are some ways that choosing to be happy can benefit teachers:

  1. Improved well-being: Teachers who choose to be happy are more likely to experience greater well-being and a sense of fulfillment in their work. This can help to reduce stress and burnout, which are common challenges for teachers. When teachers are happy and fulfilled, they are more likely to be motivated to continue their work and to make a positive impact on their students.
  2. Positive classroom environment: Teachers who choose to be happy are more likely to create a positive and supportive classroom environment. This can help to build positive relationships with students, foster a sense of community, and create a safe and supportive learning environment. When students feel supported and valued, they are more likely to be engaged in their learning and to perform better academically.
  3. Improved communication: Teachers who choose to be happy are more likely to communicate effectively with their students, parents, and colleagues. They are able to provide feedback and guidance in a way that is supportive and constructive, and are more likely to build positive relationships with those around them. Effective communication is essential for building strong relationships and creating a positive learning environment.
  4. Personal growth: Choosing to be happy can also help teachers to experience personal growth and to develop greater resilience. This can help them to cope with challenges and setbacks in their work, and to continue to grow and develop as educators.

There are several studies that have explored the relationship between teacher happiness and effectiveness in the classroom.

For example, a study published in the Journal of School Psychology found that teachers who reported higher levels of happiness were more effective at managing their classrooms and promoting positive student behavior. The study also found that happy teachers were more likely to build positive relationships with their students, which in turn led to improved academic outcomes.

Another study published in the Journal of Positive Psychology found that teachers who engaged in activities to increase their happiness, such as expressing gratitude and engaging in positive self-reflection, reported lower levels of burnout and higher levels of job satisfaction.

Additionally, a study published in the Journal of Educational Psychology found that teachers who had a positive emotional climate in their classroom, characterized by warmth, support, and positive communication, were more effective at fostering academic achievement and engagement among their students.

These studies suggest that teacher happiness and well-being are important factors in promoting positive outcomes in the classroom. When teachers are happy and fulfilled, they are more likely to create a positive learning environment, build positive relationships with their students, and foster academic achievement and engagement.

#2 as a coach:

Choosing to be happy can have a significant impact on coaches and their ability to lead their team effectively. Coaches who choose to be happy are more likely to create a positive and supportive environment for their athletes, which can lead to better performance, stronger relationships, and greater overall satisfaction.

Here are some ways that choosing to be happy can benefit coaches:

  1. Positive leadership: Coaches who choose to be happy are more likely to lead with a positive and optimistic attitude. This can inspire their athletes to approach their sport with the same mindset, and can help to create a culture of positivity and support. When coaches lead with positivity, they are more likely to foster a sense of trust and respect among their athletes.
  2. Improved communication: Coaches who are happy and positive are more likely to communicate effectively with their athletes. They are able to provide feedback and constructive criticism in a way that is supportive and encouraging, rather than critical or negative. Effective communication is essential for building strong relationships with athletes and helping them to improve their performance.
  3. Better relationships with athletes: When coaches choose to be happy, they are more likely to form positive relationships with their athletes. This can lead to greater trust, respect, and open communication. Coaches who have positive relationships with their athletes are also more likely to understand their individual strengths and weaknesses, and to be able to support them in their athletic pursuits.
  4. Enjoyment: Coaching can be a demanding and stressful job, and coaches who choose to be happy are more likely to enjoy their work. When coaches approach their role with a sense of joy and fulfillment, they are more likely to be motivated to put in the effort required to help their athletes succeed.

#3 as a dad:

Choosing to be happy can have a profound impact on dads and their families. When dads make the decision to be happy, they are more likely to approach their role as a parent with a positive and optimistic attitude. This can help them to create a warm and nurturing environment for their children, which can lead to deeper connections and stronger bonds.

Research has shown that happy dads are more likely to be involved in their children’s lives, and to have better relationships with their kids. They are also more likely to be effective role models, as they can demonstrate healthy coping strategies and positive attitudes to their children.

One way that dads can choose to be happy is by focusing on the positive aspects of their role as a parent. Instead of dwelling on the challenges and difficulties of parenting, they can choose to focus on the joys and rewards of spending time with their children. This can help them to feel more fulfilled and satisfied in their role as a dad.

Another way that dads can choose to be happy is by taking care of their own emotional and mental well-being. This means making time for activities that they enjoy, such as hobbies or exercise, and seeking support when needed. When dads prioritize their own happiness and well-being, they are better equipped to handle the demands and stresses of parenting.

#4 as an athlete:

Choosing to be happy can be particularly beneficial for high school athletes. Playing sports at this level can be demanding and stressful, with the pressure to perform well and meet the expectations of coaches, teammates, and parents. However, athletes who choose to be happy can enjoy their sport more fully and approach it with a sense of playfulness and enjoyment.

Here are some ways that choosing to be happy can benefit high school athletes:

  1. Improved performance: Athletes who approach their sport with a positive and optimistic attitude are more likely to perform well. This is because they are more likely to be relaxed, focused, and able to stay in the present moment. When athletes are enjoying themselves, they are more likely to be fully engaged in their sport and to perform to the best of their abilities.
  2. Resilience: Choosing to be happy can help athletes to develop resilience and cope with setbacks and challenges. High school athletes may face a range of challenges, from injuries to conflicts with coaches or teammates. However, athletes who choose to be happy are more likely to bounce back from these challenges and stay motivated to improve.
  3. Better relationships with teammates: When athletes choose to be happy, they are more likely to be positive and supportive of their teammates. This can help to create a positive team culture, where athletes feel valued and supported. When athletes enjoy playing together, they are more likely to perform well as a team. These relationships also lead to life long friendships which is almost immeasurable toward life-long happiness.
  4. Enjoyment: Ultimately, choosing to be happy can help high school athletes to enjoy their sport more fully. We all know how hard wrestling is and sports are meant to be fun and enjoyable, and athletes who focus on the positive aspects of their sport are more likely to have a positive experience. This can lead to greater satisfaction and fulfillment in their athletic pursuits.

To choose to be happy, high school wrestlers (athletes) can focus on developing a positive mindset and engaging in activities that bring them joy and fulfillment. This might involve setting goals, practicing gratitude, cultivating positive self-talk, and making time for activities outside of their sport. With practice and intention, high school athletes can choose to approach their sport with a sense of joy and playfulness, and reap the many benefits of a positive mindset.

I struggle with this from time to time, I need to smile more and enjoy life more, I choose to be happy!

If you are reading part 5 maybe you want to start from the beginning click here

Jon Gums

Dakota Grappler

Decision 6

Dakota Grappler

Owner and Editor of Dakota Grappler

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