Creating Happiness
The Power of the SPIRE Model
In my last post, I introduced the SPIRE model of happiness, created by Dr. Tal Ben-Shahar (2021). Happiness is something we all seek, whether consciously or subconsciously, and many of us chase it through external achievements—like a promotion, a raise, or getting into the "perfect" college. I know I’ve been there too.
But here’s the thing: I realized that once I hit a major goal, the happiness I felt was fading. That’s what’s known as the Hedonic Treadmill—the tendency to return to a baseline level of happiness after any positive or negative event.
Before I started my Master's in Happiness Studies, I saw the pursuit of happiness as somewhat selfish. But as I’ve learned, happiness isn’t just about feeling good—it’s about overall well-being. And when we nurture our well-being, we unlock our full potential, which ultimately helps us bring out the best in ourselves and the people we lead.
Why Happiness Matters
Research shows that happiness has far-reaching benefits. It strengthens our immune system, boosts productivity and creativity, and improves relationships. Whether at work, at home, or in school, happiness drives better outcomes in all areas of life (Ben-Shahar, 2021)
So, what’s the secret to creating happiness—not just for us, but for the people around us?
The SPIRE model outlines 5 key elements that allow us to actively cultivate happiness in our daily lives from moment to moment.
"People don’t realize that now is all there ever is; there is no past or future except as memory or anticipation in your mind." Eckhart Tolle (BrainyQuote, 2015)
The SPIRE Model: 5 Principles for Happiness
While we may emphasize certain elements of SPIRE more than others, each one contributes to a fuller, more meaningful life. Think of them as guiding principles for orchestrating happiness. Here they are, each with just one representative quote supporting the idea.
1. Spiritual Wellbeing – Finding meaning and purpose in life
“He who has a why to live can bear almost any how.” — Friedrich Nietzsche (BrainyQuote, 2025)
2. Physical Wellbeing – Proper nutrition, exercise, and rest
“Our bodies are our gardens; our wills are our gardeners.” — William Shakespeare (Goodreads, 2025)
3. Intellectual Wellbeing – Maintaining curiosity and engaging in deep learning
“The unexamined life is not worth living.” — Socrates (BrainyQuote, 2025)
4. Relational Wellbeing – Building meaningful connections and practicing kindness
“The only way to have a friend is to be one.” — Ralph Waldo Emerson (BrainyQuote, 2025)
5. Emotional Wellbeing – Navigating pain and nurturing positive emotions
“One small crack does not mean that you are broken, it means that you were put to the test and you didn’t fall apart.” — Linda Poindexter (Goodreads, 2025)
Why Wellbeing Is Not Selfish
As leaders—whether at work, at home, or in the community—we must prioritize our own well-being. Think about it: on an airplane, we’re always told to put on our own oxygen mask first before helping others. The same principle applies here. By focusing on our happiness and well-being, we’re better equipped to care for and lead others.
So, focusing on our well-being isn’t selfish; it’s a privilege and an obligation. By nurturing ourselves, we unlock the potential to live fully and bring out the best in those around us. Look out for more content on my trials and tribulations creating wholebeing in the here and now.
Notes:
Ben-Shahar, T. (2021, May 11). Happier, no matter what: Cultivating hope, resilience, and purpose in hard times. The Experiment.
BrainyQuote.com. Eckhart Tolle Quotes. Accessed January 2025 https://www.brainyquote.com/quotes/eckhart_tolle_523615 (accessed January 2025)
Brainyquote.com. Friedrich Nietzsche Quotes. https://www.brainyquote.com/quotes/friedrich_nietzsche_103819 (accessed Janaury 2025)
Goodreads.com. A quote by William Shakespeare. https://www.goodreads.com/quotes/328938-our-bodies-are-our-gardens-to-which-our-wills-are (accessed January 2025)
Brainyquote.com. Socrates Quotes. https://www.brainyquote.com/quotes/socrates_101168 (accessed January 2025)
Brainyquote.com. Ralph Waldo Emerson Quotes. https://www.brainyquote.com/quotes/ralph_waldo_emerson_100740 (accessed January 2025)
Goodreads.com A quote by Linda Poindexter. https://www.goodreads.com/quotes/603958-one-small-crack-does-not-mean-that-you-are-broken (Accessed January 2025)