ARTICLES & BLOG

I GOT HIGH ON GRASS, WEED AND POT

It’s been tough times with many challenges, stresses and emotions to deal with. Some dealt with and some not so well. To help I have turned to grass, weed and pot. Here I share some of those experiences, insights and learning.

pots.jpg

I GOT HIGH ON GRASS, WEED & POT

It’s been tough times with many challenges, stresses and emotions to deal with. Some dealt with well and some not so well. To help I have turned to grass, weed and pot. Here I share some of those experiences, insights and learning.

I am not talking about getting high on grass, weed or pot in the sense of drugs but about positive emotions from gardening and nature.

Grass

ochir-erdene-oyunmedeg-LmyPLbbUWhA-unsplash.jpg

The grass is greener where you water it

Neil Barringham.

During Spring I took out the lawnmower and cut the lawn. Then many weeks passed and the grass grew and grew. Once again I took out the less than 1 year old lawnmower, set it to the lower setting to cut the grass very short and started to mow the lawn. The lawnmower was hard to push, struggled and did not make a lot of headway. Then it stopped working. Could it be the fuse, the socket, the extension lead, the lawnmower? I checked the lawnmower cord into the extension lead, that was fine. I checked the extension lead into the wall socket and that it was switched on - that was fine too. I plugged in another device in the wall socket to confirm socket was fine, did the same with the extension lead. They were all fine, so by process of elimination the problem was with the lawnmower or its cord/plug. Changing the fuse made no difference. Was the lawnmower still in warranty? Was it going to cost a fortune to solve?

I unplugged the lawnmower, turned it upside down and checked the blades etc. The long grass had got entwined around the blade spinner (hover mover) and stopped it from spinning. Slowly I removed all the strands that were wrapped around, plugged in the mower, and started it. The joyous sound of a whirling blade was heard. A few weeks later I cut the grass again on mid height setting and also used strimmer. So what were the lessons learned?

Lessons learned

  1. If you try to cut too long a grass with too low a setting it won’t work. You have to tackle the challenge with the right setting. To be effective, the ability to produce and the capability of producing need to be on par. Too big a challenge without the correct ability will lead to failure.

  2. When you have a big problem, break the problem down into smaller chunks and tackle each one to identify where the actual problem is.

  3. Once you identify the problem establish if you can fix it yourself or need expert help

  4. For maintaining a good lawn or anything else it requires regular attention /cutting/ routines at the appropriate frequency be that daily, weekly, monthly, quarterly or yearly.

  5. Know which tool to use for which problem. If the only tool in your tool box is a hammer all your problems will look like nails. Use correct tools for the correct job, using the strimmer or hand shears to cut the long grass may not be the best approach. Using a spade would be the wrong tool for the job.

  6. Stephen Covey 7th Habit : Sharpen the Saw - keep the saw sharp to do the job. Keep learning, investing and developing yourself.

  7. Establishing, investigating and resolving the problem myself gave a satisfaction and affirmed my growth mindset and provided an entry for my happiness journal - I could have got a gardener to do the job. Where and when appropriate I get the correct help involved.


What is needed for Growth (Pot)?

pots.jpg

What is needed for Growth?

.

When I Google to see what is need for growth, in particular plant growth the results shown vary from 4 to 7 things. The four things are best described with this acronym: LAWN

L = Light - Sunlight

A = Air - Carbon dioxide

W = Water - H20

N = Nutrients - Soil etc

The magic of photosynthesis in plants takes water (Carbon dioxide) + Water + Energy from light to transform it; using Chlorophyll; into food (glucose) and oxygen.

The additional items are : The right temperature, room to grow (space) and time - it is not overnight.

Similarly for our growth we need the right environment (air to breathe, water to hydrate, food for nutrients, people, etc), goals to grow towards (sunlight), space to grow - not be constrained or limited by our thinking, beliefs, fears and time. We often also need a catalyst like the Chlorophyll to create that growth transformation - this may be internal or external.

What makes the plant strong and build resilience is exposure to challenge - rain, wind, sun, insects, etc. Similarly challenge helps us grow and develop resilience. The plant if in a pot needs to be in the right size of the pot, as it outgrows the pot it should be re-potted into a bigger pot so it has space to grow. Likewise we need to move out of our comfort zone into a slightly bigger zone, grow and keep going. If we try to move out too far too fast, similar to a seedling being put into a very large pot it will struggle.

Strong, deep roots are needed.

Here is an interesting video shared by KarmaTube about how trees talk to each other thought their roots.


Gardening & Community Gardens

IMG_20210615_081329.jpg

We might think we are nurturing our garden, but of course it’s our garden that is really nurturing us” -Jenny Uglow

Many thanks to Devi for sharing the above quote in the Happy Life Habits Community Facebook Group.

Being in nature and gardening have many beneficial effects. Some I have experienced when gardening, tree planting, working in a community garden or being in nature are relate to the happiness/health dimensions of Physical, Mental, Social/Emotional and Spiritual :

  • Connection

  • Community

  • Mindfulness, Present moment awareness

  • Focus, Distance from our troubles

  • Relaxation, Therapeutic

  • Nurturing growth

  • Working with our hands

  • Vitamin D

  • Noticing smells, the air and watching the wildlife

  • Reminded of what we sow is what we reap

  • Pruning - get rid of habits, beliefs and things that don’t serve us to allow space for those that do

The greenness and expanse of nature has a calming and awe inspiring effect. The colour green is relaxing hence in TV studios they have the green room used before people go on air. This article shares the benefits of gardening and being in greenery.

https://www.theguardian.com/lifeandstyle/2021/jun/13/james-wong-on-gardens-gardening-is-good-for-mental-and-physical-health

Martine Drake from Mind in Enfield & Barnet took part in the Happy Life Habits 30 Day Gratitude & Journal Habit Immersion Training Course. She runs a community garden and has this to share:

Results suggest that community gardens were perceived by gardeners to provide numerous health benefits, including improved access to food, improved nutrition, increased physical activity and improved mental health. Community gardens were also seen to promote social health and community cohesion.

From my experiences running the garden for Mind in Enfield and Barnet, we have seen increased physical activity (including from walking to and from the site) and improved mental health mainly from being with other people in an attractive environment.


Weed

  • Weeds take no effort to grow and they grow quickly.

  • They take nutrients away from plants/flowers.

  • Negative thoughts are like weeds. They are an energy drain.

  • We have to put in effort to remove them, take them out at the roots, plough the land (mind) and plant the seeds we want to nurture, feed, cultivate, blossom and bear fruit.

  • The world is on a negative bias and the work of Barbara Fredrickson on positive emotions shows that we need a ratio of 3:1 of positive emotions to negative to balance out the negative. Likewise for a wonderful bloom we need to plant many more flowers than weeds so there is hardly any room for the weeds to grow.

  • We have to actively remove the weeds/negative thoughts and cultivate the flowers/positivity we want to blossom, enjoy and share.


“Happiness held is the seed,

Happiness shared is the flower” - John Harrigan



A request dear friend and reader.

(1) If you have enjoyed some of the articles I have shared and found useful please reply to shaileen@happylifehabits.co.uk and let me know.

(2) If you are not a subscriber to the Happy Life Habits email list - please sign up.

(3) If you think someone else might benefit from this please share with them.

(4) If you want to engage my services for coaching, speaking or training get in touch and lets see if we can create a win-win result.

If you want to receive articles, information on events and support Happy Life Habits sign up to the join the email list.

Happy Life Habit Events

Happy Life Habits FaceBook Community Group

Happy Life Habits FaceBook Page

Instagram happylifehabits_hlh

LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/shaileen-shah/

Shaileen Shah is a Happiness Coach, Speaker and Trainer. Previously having been in finance technology for the investment banking arm of RBS during the RBS takeover of Natwest, the RBS takeover of ABN Ambro and the financial crisis he has experienced the challenges brought by uncertainty, change and stress. He is certified in The Science of Happiness and shares through Happy Life Habits. Happy Life Habits Positively Impacts Happiness & Well Being Levels by creatively and uniquely combining Personal Development + The Science of Happiness + Spirituality. A business for Good. For more information see HappyLifeHabits.co.uk

Read More

Singing my Praises - 6 Month Review Happy Life Habits (HLH)

Photo by Markus Winkler on Unsplash

Leadership Vs Management

My teenage son asked me if I thought he was a leader or a manager. He asked after I picked him up from school where he had an interview for head boy, a role he had put his name forward for. He had been asked the question. I answered I thought he was a leader, I asked what he had answered and it was the same. Then I asked what he thought the difference between the two was.

I shared with him some thoughts I have learnt over time from Stephen Covey, Robin Sharma, John Maxwell, Simon Sinek, Nick Williams and my own experience of leadership.

Some of this I had shared with Xerox The Women's Alliance (TWA): Xerox Women’s Alliance – UK & Ireland Chapter in the talk titled " The Role of Effective Selfcare in Positive Leadership".

"Leadership is an act not a position"
"Leadership is not about taking charge but looking after those in your charge" Simon Sinek
"Leadership is about bring out the best in the people you work with"

With my son I shared the difference between Leadership and Management using the Stephen Covey example of Management being about climbing a ladder and Leadership about making sure the ladder is against the right wall. I used example of management painting house - sanding correctly, applying primer, 2 coats and doing it properly. Leadership being making sure it is the correct house that is being painted.

"Management is doing things right. Leadership is doing the right things".

What are your thoughts on leadership and management?
Have you had any interesting conversations lately?


Singing my Praises - 6 Month Review Happy Life Habits (HLH)


I'm singing my praises, not to stroke my ego but to reaffirm to myself when sometimes I feel doubt, insecure, unmotivated or inspired. To remind why I get up in the morning and do what I do : Positively Impacting Happiness & Wellbeing Levels.

On 30th June we completed the 30 Day Happy Life Habits Gratitude & Habit Immersion Training Course. During the celebration calls the participants shared some of the changes that the had experienced - some were quite transformative. All rated the course excellent or very good.

With us being 6 months into the year I often take the opportunity to look back and to look forward - to review, reflect and remind.


6 Month Review:


In December just before the year end we had a Looking Back, Looking Forward Workshop - reflecting on last year and planning next. This was postponed from original date due to the death of my father in mid December.

We delivered 90 days of training through 3 instalments of the
30 Day HLH Gratitude & Journal Habit Immersion Course - this was Jan, Mar and June.

From Late Jan through Apr during lockdown; through 2 series; we supported with 12 consecutive weeks of Inspiration Point Podcast featuring amazing people sharing their journeys, One series was dedicated to Women, Mothers Day and International Women's Day.

In March we celebrated International Day of Happiness using the Wonder platform and having a variety of speakers, coaches, therapists, practitioners share in zones for Laughter, Relaxation, dealing with loss and conversations.

We took part in some talks with Healing Our Earth and SRMD in March and April

During May we supported Mental Health and Mental Health Awareness week (MHAW) with
Daily Videos - various groups
Events with Asian Parents Club before and after MHAW
Xerox The Womens Alliance talk
2 Happiness Booster sessions - one with Oshwal Connect
Daily quotes in Happy Life Habits Community Facebook group
Hosting a 21 Day Simple Living Challenge

Shared through various articles, blog post etc on Facebook, LinkedIn and the HLH website.

The Future continues with

Corp talks/workshops
Wellness event by Iglobal
Taking part in podcasts
Hosting more Inspiration Point Podcasts
Asian Parents Club sessions including one on Grief
HLH MasterMind Group - new exciting monthly project
30 Day HLH Gratitude & Journal Habit Immersion Course

What is one of your memorable, positive events, impacts, achievements from the last 6 months?

What are you looking forward to in remaining 6 months of the year?


The new and fun virtual event platform called Wonder that just turned 1 years old has a feature on Happy Life Habits in it’s July newsletter. We used Wonder for the International Day of Happiness event on 20th March 2020. as Happy Life Habits we are using it for various meetings and events.

Here is the write up.

"With a few simple adaptations to your routine, you can positively rewire your brain to bring high self-esteem, focus, and happiness into your everyday life."

Meet Shaileen Shah: the happiness coach trying to keep the business world an emotionally positive place. The founder of Happy Life Habits, Shaileen has a unique approach to personal development and the 'Science of Happiness'. A scientifically certified process that uses real life and digital gatherings to increase the 'feel good' chemical in the brain? Sign us up.

Q: Tell us about Happy Life Habits.
A: Happiness is a skill that can be learned and developed into empowering life habits. Happy Life Habits introduce off-screen practices and habits to rewire the brain and increase happiness levels. Developing an offline tool kit allows you to disconnect the practice from a fixed environment, and allow your brain and feelings to fully surface without distractions. We then use online check-ins to share the knowledge, reflect with others, and solidify the practice in a professional environment.

Q: Tell us about your last event.
A: Most of our events are currently online and we foresee a good proportion being so in the future. We have a 30 Day Gratitude & Journal Habit Immersion Training Course with a mix of live online sessions, a private Facebook group, and accountability via WhatsApp. The goal is to deliver content online but connect to your offline brain.

Q: Why are you using Wonder?
A:
I used Wonder to create an event for International Day of Happiness on 20th March. I set up Areas for Laughter, Relaxation, Conversation, and Dealing with Loss; being able to define specific Areas for people to meet removes the awkward introductory periods in other online tools. It worked so well and people were immediately able to connect to like-minded individuals and approach whom they wanted to speak to. The experience lends itself to a natural environment for having conversations that stick with you after the laptop is closed. Because of the simple UX, easy setup, and Area control, my guests had a memorable and positive experience with Wonder, and made a positive connection to the material. It's the perfect platform for hybrid events.

Check out Happy Life Habits and join their upcoming training course on Happiness. Mention Wonder and get a discount ;)


Shaileen-Shah_IG.jpg

Excited to join @iglobalmedia for its first-ever Great Big Indian Wellness Show, on 16 & 17 July 2021. Join me as I discuss “Happiness Habits” at the BIGGEST & BEST health and wellbeing event for the welfare of the modern British Indian. Book your free virtual seat today & don’t miss out to be a part of 2 riveting days of masterclasses, top tips and discussions at #iWellnessShow. Register NOW https://bit.ly/iGlobal-TheGreatBigIndianWellnessShow2021

I’ll be sharing on 17th at 16:25.


HLH events and activities

HLH MasterMind Group

HLH MasterMind Group

Happy Life Habits Mastermind Group

A place for a small group of like minded positive people each month to come together online, connect, support, inspire, share and cheer each other on in life's journey.

A segment for learning - a book, podcast, conversation, reflection or article that has inspired us.

A segment for brainstorming practical solutions to a problem that a member is facing, tapping into the collective wisdom of the group.

An opportunity to take consistent steps towards our goals within an environment that helps accelerate our learning, growth and progress.

Limited spaces.

We start on the 16th of July and run each month with virtual 90 min virtual meeting plus private Facebook Group.


Inspiration Point S4 Combo.png

Inspiration Point Podcast Series 4 confirmed for Autumn with another amazing line up. Booking and episode details will be available later this month.


A request dear friend and reader.

(1) If you have enjoyed some of the articles I have shared and found useful please reply to shaileen@happylifehabits.co.uk and let me know.

(2) If you are not a subscriber to the Happy Life Habits email list - please sign up.

(3) If you think someone else might benefit from this please share with them.

(4) If you want to engage my services for coaching, speaking or training get in touch and lets see if we can create a win-win result.

If you want to receive articles, information on events and support Happy Life Habits sign up to the join the email list.

Happy Life Habit Events

Happy Life Habits FaceBook Community Group

Happy Life Habits FaceBook Page

Instagram happylifehabits_hlh

LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/shaileen-shah/

Shaileen Shah is a Happiness Coach, Speaker and Trainer. Previously having been in finance technology for the investment banking arm of RBS during the RBS takeover of Natwest, the RBS takeover of ABN Ambro and the financial crisis he has experienced the challenges brought by uncertainty, change and stress. He is certified in The Science of Happiness and shares through Happy Life Habits. Happy Life Habits Positively Impacts Happiness & Well Being Levels by creatively and uniquely combining Personal Development + The Science of Happiness + Spirituality. A business for Good. For more information see HappyLifeHabits.co.uk.

Read More

Take A Moment

Sometimes we just need to take a moment to catch our breath, reset ourselves or get ready of the next challenge. Take a moment now to reflect on the last few months of this year and what you have experienced and learnt. Take a moment to reflect on what you want to experience in the next 3 months and also by the end of the year. I’ll take a moment here to share what Happy Life Habits has planned over the next 3 months. We are your partner on the happiness journey.

Sometimes we just need to take a moment to catch our breath, reset ourselves or get ready of the next challenge. Take a moment now to reflect on the last few months of this year and what you have experienced and learnt. Take a moment to reflect on what you want to experience in the next 3 months and also by the end of the year. I’ll take a moment here to share what Happy Life Habits has planned over the next 3 months. We are your partner on the happiness journey.


Just 2 mins…

If Happy Life Habits has positively impacted your happiness & wellbeing levels by any of these:

  • Attending a course or workshop

  • Support during Mental Health Awareness Week

  • Participating in the book club

  • Attending a Happiness Booster session

  • Coaching session

  • Inspiration Point Podcast (live or recording)

  • Reading a blog article

  • Reading a post/video/quote etc on Facebook/ LinkedIn/ Instagram / YouTube etc

  • Just a chat

Then please take 2 mins to fill out this google review so we can reach and serve more people.

https://g.page/happy-life-habits/review?gm


Inspiration Point Podcast Last Episode

This week we have the last episode of Inspiration Point Podcast Series 3 (attend with gifted ticket using promo code ‘GUEST’) . With that episode we have continuously served 12 weeks, each week of Inspiration Point Podcast through series 2 and series 3. The feedback from those who attended the live episodes is that majority:

  • Would recommend Inspiration Point Podcast to family and friends

  • Compared to start of episode, at the end of the episode their happiness levels were higher

I thank all the guests who have taken part in the 3 series we have had so far (18 episodes), the sponsors and all those who have attended the live episode or caught up on the recording. Each episode has been special, insightful, inspiring, positive and I have learnt much from it. There are patterns and differences. Please do share any feedback you may have.

If you would like to take part in a future episode or know someone who might please share this form. The more forms filled the sooner we can plan series 4 and 5 later this year.


Speaker Events

We continue to host and share events and also get invited to speak at those organised by various communities, groups, companies and organisations.

This week we take part in a wellness talk, as series organised by Shrimad Rajchandra Dharampar Mission. It is a free event open to all.

SRMD Wellness Talk - SoH.jpeg

Happiness at Work - Help Wanted

We could do with your help to support Happiness at Work. We have a range of talks/workshops on offer and can also do bespoke sessions. If the below topics are of interest let your HR, Managers, Leaders, networks know of these services and we could be sharing them at your workplace to everyone’s benefit. Also see further below about Mental Health Awareness Week.

For a successful engagement we will thank you with the Happiness Journal (£25) used in the Gratitude & Journal Habit Immersion Training Course.

SOME OF THE TOPICS OFFERED BY HAPPY LIFE HABITS INTO THE WORKPLACE ARE:

  • The Role of Effective Self-Care in Positive Leadership

  • A Framework for Work-Life Harmony

  • The 7 Habits of a Happy Workforce

  • Increasing Positivity & Resilience in Stressful Environments

  • The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People (Stephen Covey’s work)

  • The Secret To Long Lasting Happiness: The Gratitude Workshop

  • Being Centred during uncertain, changing times


Gratitude & Journal Habit Immersion Training Course

The Happy Life Habits Gratitude and Journal Habit Immersion Training Course will be one year old on 1st June. We just finished the March course and have June and November this year. For June we have option of morning sessions or evening sessions.

The course run over 30 days helps to develop habits in both Gratitude and Journaling and reap the benefits of these practices. The first session, a Journal Workshop has been extended to 90 mins from original 60 mins incorporating ideas on habits from various sources including: Atomic Habits - James Clear, The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People - Stephen Covey and the ideas of B.J Fogg and Charles Duhigg.

If this year you want to deepen you Gratitude practice, develop it as a new one or add a journal practice then this is the course for you. The benefits delivered by the course are immense, far reaching and in excess of the investment price.

The course price will be going up on 17th May - after Mental Health Awareness Week. You can secure a place for June or Nov at the current price by registering before mid-May.

Really do not miss out on this opportunity to develop these skills during 2021, I currently have not idea if and what frequency will run the course in 2022.


Mental Health Awareness Week : 10-16 May

Last year we supported Mental Health Awareness Week (MHAW) in various ways on each day. This year we will support MHAW. If you are aware of any resources or events please do let us know by 25th April so we can include them in an article before MHAW.

We have a free 21 Day Simple Living Challenge that will start on 10th May. Each day you get an email in your inbox with a thought, reflection or action and you can go onto the kindspring platform for the challenge and share your experiences and read the other participants. I found these challenges a brilliant support during the pandemic and lockdown months.

To join click here: https://www.kindspring.org/challenge/join/2041/

https://www.happylifehabits.co.uk/events-and-workshops/2021/5/9/mental-health-awareness-week-free-21-day-simply-living-challenge


A request dear friend and reader.

(1) If you have enjoyed some of the articles I have shared and found useful please reply to shaileen@happylifehabits.co.uk and let me know.

(2) If you are not a subscriber to the Happy Life Habits email list - please sign up.

(3) If you think someone else might benefit from this please share with them.

(4) If you want to engage my services for coaching, speaking or training get in touch and lets see if we can create a win-win result.

If you want to receive articles, information on events and support Happy Life Habits sign up to the join the email list.

Happy Life Habit Events

Happy Life Habits FaceBook Community Group

Happy Life Habits FaceBook Page

Instagram happylifehabits_hlh

Shaileen Shah is a Happiness Coach, Speaker and Trainer. Previously having been in finance technology for the investment banking arm of RBS during the RBS takeover of Natwest, the RBS takeover of ABN Ambro and the financial crisis he has experienced the challenges brought by uncertainty, change and stress. He is certified in The Science of Happiness and shares through Happy Life Habits. Happy Life Habits Positively Impacts Happiness & Well Being Levels by creatively and uniquely combining Personal Development + The Science of Happiness + Spirituality. A business for Good. For more information see HappyLifeHabits.co.uk.

Read More

The UN's International Day Of Happiness

As a Happiness Coach and Happy Life Habits we love the International Day of Happiness, dedicated to celebrating the importance of happiness. We are celebrating with an event and also share some other activities that we are aware of that are going on related to this. Wishing you a Happy Day celebrating the International Day of Happiness.

HLH Idoh .png

As a Happiness Coach and Happy Life Habits we love the International Day of Happiness, dedicated to celebrating the importance of happiness. We are celebrating with an event and also share some other activities that we are aware of that are going on related to this. Wishing you a Happy Day celebrating the International Day of Happiness.

What is the International Day of Happiness?

The UN says

It’s a day to be happy, of course! Since 2013, the United Nations has celebrated the International Day of Happiness as a way to recognise the importance of happiness in the lives of people around the world. In 2015, the UN launched the 17 Sustainable Development Goals, which seek to end povertyreduce inequality, and protect our planet – three key aspects that lead to well-being and happiness. 

The United Nations invites each person of any age, plus every classroom, business and government to join in celebration of the International Day of Happiness.

Happy Life Habits Celebrating International Day of Happiness

Our Inspiration Point Podcast episodes on either side of the International Day of Happiness, 17th March with Sacha Clark and 24th with Mary Thomson are both who have trained in teaching happiness.

Happy Life Habits is celebrating with a event on the actual day, there will be various zones such as laughter, relaxation, life after loss, gratitude and more for people to discuss, share, express, explore, listen and connect. We will have comedy, laughter yoga, EFT (Emotional Freedom Technique) - Tapping, rebuilding life after loss, gratitude and more. This celebration is delivered with the help of:

Mary Thomson will share a Playful blending of Happiness, Laughter Yoga, Mindfulness and Gratitude

Mary is a trained nurse and nurse trainer who has taken training in Happiness Teaching, Laughter Yoga, Mindfulness and Gratitude. More about Mary on Inspiration Point Podcast page.

Kalpana Doshi will combine Laughter Yoga and lead a Meditation

Kalpana is a certified Laughter Yoga practitioner based in London, with more than eight years of experience across the UK and internationally. (www.spiritlaughter.com)

Mel Byron will bring smiles with Comedy and Laughter

Mel is a trainer and stand-up comedian, who passionately believes in joy, confidence and kindness being the keys to success in work and in life. More about Mel on Inspiration Point Podcast page. ( www.melbyron.com)

Suraj Shah will hold space on “Rebuilding a calm, joyful and purposeful life following the loss of a loved one”

Suraj holds deep conversations with those seeking to rebuild their lives following a significant change or loss. For instance, the death of a loved one or a change of role due to redundancy, retirement or when children have grown up and left the nest. (www.SurajShah.com)

Nina Joshi Ramsey will conduct EFT (Emotional Freedom Technique) - Tapping

Nina is an author, speaker, trainer with skills in stress management, Reiki and healing techniques including EFT (Emotional Freedom Technique) - Tapping. More about Nina on Inspiration Point Podcast page. (www.ninajoshiramsey.com)

Hansa Pankhania will lead a Relaxation Meditation

Hansa is a Stress Resilience & Wellbeing Expert and Author, Executive Coach and Speaker, and cherishes the opportunity to support the world in managing the stress and anxiety that is prevalent in society today. More about Hansa on Inspiration Point Podcast page. (www.aumconsultancy.co.uk)

Melanie Bloch will share Laughter from the Inside Out

Melanie is a Holistic Laughter Coach - student and facilitator of' A Course In Miracles' Laughter Therapist, Laughter Yoga Teacher, Advanced Bodyworker, Theta Healer, Thought Field Therapist and Reiki Master with over 25 years in the Complementary Medicine Field.(www.melaniebloch.co.uk)

Shaileen Shah will hosting, celebrating and looking forward to conversations on happiness

Shaileen is a happiness coach, speaker and trainer. He is trained in the Science of Happiness and through Happy Life Habits positively impacts Happiness & Wellbeing Levels. (www.HappyLifeHabits.co.uk).

Tickets can be booked here.



Action for Happiness - 10 Days of Happiness

Action for Happiness a non-profit movement of people from 160 countries helps coordinate activities of the UN’s International Day of Happiness.

For a month long coping calendar and to join a 10 day online happiness course see https://www.dayofhappiness.net/#new

10daysofhappiness.jpg

The Museum Of Happiness - Celebrate International Day of Happiness! 20th March 11am -12pm

Our friends The Museum of Happiness each year celebrate this day. This year join Museum of Happiness co-founder Vicky, to explore and create your very own mini Museum of Happiness, and learn simple but science-backed ways to add a little happiness to your every day.

Aimed at everyone from 5 to 95, bring some art supplies and a sense of play, and let’s make it a day of happiness - together!

The session will be held on Zoom and you will receive and email nearer to the time with everything you need for the session.

https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/celebrate-international-day-of-happiness-tickets-144239617579

Moh IDOH.jpg

The Slough Collective - Feel Good Festival 10:30 - 5:45pm

Our friends at the Slough Collective have put on a Feel Good Festival with a variety of activities including meditation, cooking, creative writing, laughter and play during 18th, 19th, 20th and 22nd March.

Celebrate International Happiness Day at our Slough’s fifth feel-good festival. Join us on zoom to connect, have fun, and feel-good. You’ll experience 'the five ways to well-being' with Slough Happiness Collective and our co-creators. Andy Craven-Jones (Joygernaut), Friends in Need (MIND Bucks), HOME Slough, Light Mind, Natasha Bloc (ToucanToo), Reading Friends (The Curve & Slough Libraries), Slough CVS, Slough Caribbean Forum, Slough Dominican Association, VIBE (Vision Impression Black Expression), The Samaritans, Tuneless Choir, Yoga with Bali.

The programme includes opportunities to create, learn, relax, and play. Create a perfect pasty, a Polish version of ‘Nutella’ some happy art, happy poems, kind creative writing or an icon for Slough. Learn how to really listen, build your positivity portfolio or how to look after your happiness in challenging times. Relax with happy mindful reading, Tonglen meditation or laughter yoga. Play in our happiness quiz, creative playtime or playful singing for those who can’t sing (and those who can). Pick and mix the sessions to suit you.

We’re bringing together creatives, well-being practitioners and happiness facilitators to give you a chance to have some fun, try something new, learn new skills and meet friends old and new.

Come for the day or as many sessions as you like, just arrive a few minutes before each session. We'll have short breaks between sessions where we'll close Zoom so we can all have a change of space.

Book at https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/feel-good-festival-to-celebrate-world-happiness-day-2021-registration-142993588673

For the Creative Playtime with Natasha Block of Toucantoo

https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/creative-playtime-end-of-day-party-for-international-day-of-happiness-tickets-142780234525?aff=eand

1.jpeg
2.jpeg

Shamash Alidina - Fun Mindfulness for Children and teens 20th March 2-5:30pm

Our friend Shamash a mindfulness teacher and trainer is hosting this event.

This event will bring together 10-20 different mindfulness teachers, trainers and specialists, offering ways to bring mindfulness in a fun and accessible to children of various ages.

Children and teens are welcome to attend, although the day is designed to offer tips to adults who work with children or teens.

https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/fun-mindfulness-for-children-and-teens-tickets-137921479859?ref=eios

Shamash idoh.jpg

Healing Our Earth Happiness & Meditation 21st March 2pm -7pm

A collection of international speakers sharing on happiness and meditation talks and activities. I’ll be speaking at this at 4:15pm (TBC).

https://healingourearth.com/

OurHealingEarth IDOH.jpeg

Life Counsellor & Spiritual Teacher Lia Steinson & Holistic Laughter Coach Melanie Bloch Tues 23rd March 7pm -9pm

The International Day of Happiness is an annual event organised by the United Nations to promote the idea that feeling happy is a global human right.

Exploring this year's International Day of Happiness Theme

Keep Calm, Stay Wise, Be Kind

Tuesday 23rd March 7-9pm

With Life Counsellor & Spiritual Teacher Lia Steinson and Holistic Laughter Coach Melanie Bloch.

'Whatever turns the corner of your mouth up-trust that' Rumi

An evening of connection, sharing laughter play, enquiry, meditation and music.

Contact Lia on lia.ichooselove@gmail.com to let us know you're attending and to receive the Zoom Link.

Lia Steinson is passionate about our potential to experience lasting happiness, love and inner peace and she has dedicated her life to this purpose as both a Counsellor and Facilitator. Her qualifications and experience are extensive. She focuses particularly on the teachings of A Course in Miracles, Hindu spirituality, non-dual teachings in general and Reichian Bodywork - all with love and joy at their core.

Melanie Bloch

Holistic Laughter Coach - student and facilitator of' A Course In Miracles' Laughter Therapist, Laughter Yoga Teacher, Advanced Bodyworker, Theta Healer, Thought Field Therapist and Reiki Master with over 25 years in the Complementary Medicine Field.

Anyone looking for some peace, fun, joy and real healing – I can guarantee Mel will deliver. She is the real deal’.‘

IMG_20210305_193202.jpg

A request dear friend and reader.

(1) If you have enjoyed some of the articles I have shared and found useful please reply to shaileen@happylifehabits.co.uk and let me know.

(2) If you are not a subscriber to the Happy Life Habits email list - please sign up.

(3) If you think someone else might benefit from this please share with them.

(4) If you want to engage my services for coaching, speaking or training get in touch and lets see if we can create a win-win result.

If you want to receive articles, information on events and support Happy Life Habits sign up to the join the email list.

Happy Life Habit Events

Happy Life Habits FaceBook Community Group

Happy Life Habits FaceBook Page

Instagram happylifehabits_hlh

Shaileen Shah is a Happiness Coach, Speaker and Trainer. Previously having been in finance technology for the investment banking arm of RBS during the RBS takeover of Natwest, the RBS takeover of ABN Ambro and the financial crisis he has experienced the challenges brought by uncertainty, change and stress. He is certified in The Science of Happiness and shares through Happy Life Habits. Happy Life Habits Positively Impacts Happiness & Well Being Levels by creatively and uniquely combining Personal Development + The Science of Happiness + Spirituality. A business for Good. For more information see HappyLifeHabits.co.uk.

Read More

A NEW HOPE? OR NO HOPE?

Sometimes with the restrictions of lockdown, the negative news, so many deaths and cold, dark winter we feel like there is no hope and at other times hope is all we have.

The original classic Stars Wars was titled Episode IV : A New Hope. In this blog article I share some recent positive news stories, resources and Happy Life Habits activities.

Sometimes with the restrictions of lockdown, the negative news, so many deaths and cold, dark winter we feel like there is no hope and at other times hope is all we have.

The original classic Stars Wars was titled Episode IV : A New Hope. In this blog article I share some recent positive news stories, resources and Happy Life Habits activities.

IMG_20210209_080742.jpg

Everything is F*cked : A book about Hope

Sometimes it feels like the title of this book. This is a book I recently got hold of, still to be read but looks interesting and the author’s previous book I have seen mentioned.

“Why should I fear death? If I am, then death is not. If Death is, then I am not. Why should I fear that which can only exist when I do not?”
— Epicurus

Wonderful Positive News about HelpVeerNow

Veer is a 4 year old boy, son of our friends and from the communities we are part of. He has low blood counts and desperately needs a stem cell donor. The family have set up HelpVeerNow to raise awareness and help campaign to get more people on the the donor lists so they can find a match for Veer and also help others in the same situation to find a match. The numbers of people registered to be a donor is very low especially in BAME. To find a match is like finding a needle in a haystack. It needn’t be. If everyone, including you and people you know registered then there would be plenty of needles to be easily found.

The wonderful news is that three 90% matches have been found. A few months ago there weren’t and the family had been told that Veer had months instead of years to find a transplant donor as his counts had dropped.

You can listen to the family’s journey on the BBC World Service recording. It is very powerful, positive, uplifting and funny with the mention of a stem cell donut! and Veer going out to look for his superhero donor. What comes through the the emotional and mental struggles, them leaning into their Jain faith and keeping focused on the positive. Even with Veer having a match, the campaigning continues as many more people needed on the registers.

https://www.bbc.co.uk/sounds/play/w3ct1fq8

I am privileged to say the family are part of the Happy Life Habits Community, attended workshops and training courses. In May 2020 when a Veer’s Virtual Extravaganza was held, Happy Life Habits was honoured to serve in opening the Extravaganza with a Happiness and Gratitude workshop.

HelpVeerNow match.png

Resource: Coping in a Crisis

Hansa Pankhania a new acquaintance is an author, coach and consultant who will be in a future series of the Inspiration Point Podcast. She has written a variety of books on Stress, Crisis as well as stories. Her most recent is title Coping in a Crisis and covers coping with loss, financial loss, grief, relationship and including coping strategies. The book is free to download from www.aumconsultancy.co.uk.

Hansa has been inspired by Deepak Chopra’s WellBeing Centre - more in future Inspiration Point Podcast .

JVB London: The Future of Wellbeing & Higher Consciousness by Dr. Deepak Chopra

Recently I was able to attend a zoom meeting with the world reknowned Deepak Chopra. It was organised by JVB London and titled The Future of Wellbeing & Higher Consciousness by Dr. Deepak Chopra. The recording is here and well worth listening to. It resonated on some many levels for me and I loved watching it.


Happy Life Habits Gratitude & Journal Habit Immersion Training Course

Gratitude has been shown to increase the chances of psychologically surviving hard times. In the HLH Gratitude Workshops I share that gratitude helps :

  1. Us feel less deflated

  2. Gives Hope

  3. Helps Heal

It certainly has done this for me through life’s various challenges and has helped over 50 people who have taken the 30 day Happy Life Habits Gratitude & Journal Habit Immersion Training Course. It is a pro-social behaviour making use feel more connected.

I’ll share a recent testimonial:

I’ve just completed the Happiness and Gratitude training programme that Shaileen hosted.
We all ‘know’ what to do and how to ‘be’ happy, positive and grateful but it’s not always something that’s at the forefront of our minds when we are in the day to day of our lives. I booked on this course back in November as something to look forward to for the start of the year.

Alongside Shaileens’ great questions and coaching support, there was a daily journal to complete.

The whole programme was really, really good. My mindset has grown stronger as a result of the course and for anyone who wants some MH (Mental Health) support, to be able to see the ‘wood for the trees’ or like me, just wants to spend a bit of time focussing on the ‘haves’ vs the ‘have nots’ - this is for you.

I highly recommend it to you and to anyone who supports MH in the workplace. It’s fabulous.
— Mandy Ward - Book Structure lady helping you get your book off to a flying start. I sit on the writing bus with you until your book is done | Book Structure | 1 Stop Shop Book Creation | Author | Mentor | #WriteMyBook
Gratitude Course Survey feedback.png

If you want to know more, sign up or join waiting list go to https://www.happylifehabits.co.uk/habit-immersion


Inspiration Point Podcast Series 2

We reach half way through series 2 with 2 fantastic episodes completed and the 3rd due in a few hours as I write. The sessions I have found and feedback received as being unique, inspiring, positive, uplifting and an hour well spent. Episode 5 is about my cousin Dr Ajay Shah who is the older brother of episode 3 Niraj Shah. Earlier we shared Veer was looking for a super hero to be his stem cell donor. Episode 5 is Dr Ajay Shah - Super Hero Doctor. In recent ITV news about the Covid19 vaccination programme, Ajay has been caught in action.

https://www.itv.com/news/2021-02-05/all-uk-adults-over-50-should-receive-covid-vaccine-by-may-government-says

Inspiration Point S2 Full Combo.png

Past recordings you can find at https://www.happylifehabits.co.uk/inspiration-point and if you would like or know one who may be great to take part in a future episode please fill out the simple form at https://www.happylifehabits.co.uk/inspiration-point-form.



Happy life habits connected conversations

I have recently had wonderful conversations related to Happy Life Habits projects. One was with a friend, HLH community member and course graduate. They asked what is the difference between motivation and inspiration. I had a good think, some ideas, did research and confirmed my thoughts plus additional concepts. We had a great conversation sharing and deepening each of our understanding. I’ll share at a later date the ideas shared. That conversation, the HLH Book Club plus writings on connection, relationships, isolation shared over the last year help give more traction to the idea of Connected Conversations.

To help foster connection, reduce sense of isolation and pro-social behaviour plus its benefits we have a new initiative we are exploring: Connected Conversations. It is not a workshop, it is not a talk. It’s a conversation.

  • 30-60 mins - join on time, leave at anytime

  • 1:1 and 1:many conversations

  • Move to different conversation groups at will

  • Using wonder.me platform

  • Discuss, share, express, explore, listen, connect

Theme: Relationships and Connection

Date & Time:  Sunday 14th Feb 10:30am -11:30am

Where: Wonder.me

Link: https://www.wonder.me/HappyLifeHabits

HLH Connected Conversations.png

Here are some links to previous articles and workshop recordings from 2020 on Happier Relationships that I am quite proud of and people have found useful. https://www.happylifehabits.co.uk/news/2020/2/6/happier-relationships


A request dear friend and reader.

(1) If you have enjoyed some of the articles I have shared and found useful please reply to shaileen@happylifehabits.co.uk and let me know.

(2) If you are not a subscriber to the Happy Life Habits email list - please sign up.

(3) If you think someone else might benefit from this please share with them.

(4) If you want to engage my services for coaching, speaking or training get in touch and lets see if we can create a win-win result.

If you want to receive articles, information on events and support Happy Life Habits sign up to the join the email list.

Happy Life Habit Events

Happy Life Habits FaceBook Community Group

Happy Life Habits FaceBook Page

Instagram happylifehabits_hlh

Shaileen Shah is a Happiness Coach, Speaker and Trainer. Previously having been in finance technology for the investment banking arm of RBS during the RBS takeover of Natwest, the RBS takeover of ABN Ambro and the financial crisis he has experienced the challenges brought by uncertainty, change and stress. He is certified in The Science of Happiness and shares through Happy Life Habits. Happy Life Habits Positively Impacts Happiness & Well Being Levels by creatively and uniquely combining Personal Development + The Science of Happiness + Spirituality. A business for Good; supporting the UNs Sustainable Development Goals. For more information see HappyLifeHabits.co.uk.


Read More

LOOKING FORWARD

The 3rd Monday in January is known as Blue Monday, a day when many people feel low or more depressed due to various factors. This year is falls on Monday 18th January 2021. Previously, I wrote about Blue Monday and some ideas to combat it.

Looking Back, Looking Forward.png



Blue Monday

The 3rd Monday in January is known as Blue Monday, a day when many people feel low or more depressed due to various factors. This year is falls on Monday 18th January 2021. Previously, I wrote about Blue Monday and some ideas to combat it.

On Friday I learnt that an ex-work colleague passed away. We worked in the same department and had been in India together briefly. This along with my own recent grieving as well as hearing on a daily basis of friend and family losing close ones is tough. Another friend recently lost his father, I shared the articles I had written about death and loss with him and also offered to host prayers over zoom. To be of help and service lifted spirits.

Looking Back, Looking Forward

On New Years Eve we shared the previous postponed Looking Back, Looking Forward workshop where a year compass workbook had been shared as well as various ideas on finding focus for the year. A particular idea shared was to look at 3 areas :

  1. Self

  2. Relationships

  3. Career/business

and have a goal/intention in each of these. For my self this has helped to have clarity on what I am focusing on for 2021 in each of these areas and has let to actions/habits/goals in them.

A slide shared at the workshop

A slide shared at the workshop



Corporate Services

For Business - the key this year is more impact in Corporate/company sector.

I can do with your help. If you have your own business, work for company or used to work for a company please do share the Happy Life Habits website and services with Directors, Owners, HR departments, Network groups , well being officers, event organisers, training teams etc.

Some of the services are at https://www.happylifehabits.co.uk/services

In short it improves well being, productivity, effectiveness, confidence, resilience and resourcefulness and has an impact on the bottom line. This is through talks, workshops, coaching or training. Some of the areas are:

  • Happiness at Work

  • Work Life Harmony

  • Stress Management

  • Time Management

  • The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People

  • Productivity and Effectiveness

  • Resilience and Positivity

  • Developing Habits

  • Mindfulness

  • Bespoke Training - just ask

Many thanks in advance. The Corporate work allows Happy Life Habits to offer free and low cost services to the community.

Current Happy Life Habits Projects

The 30 Day Gratitude & Journal Habit Immersion Training Course

We are having successful impact on the January intake of the 30 HLH Gratitude & Journal Habit Immersion Training Course with the trainees half way through the course. The course is running during UKs national lockdown and supporting the participants.

Each iteration of the course has some improvements added from feedback and experience. It is a very powerful course and experience for building positive habits and deepening your gratitude, positivity and happiness. The waiting list is open for future courses.

Here is a link to a pretty good Robin Sharma video on The Winning Habits. Much of this we also share in the course and in particular the first live session The 90 minute Journal Workshop.

https://www.robinsharmanation.com/the-winning-habits-masterclass-free1610190944909


Inspiration Point Podcast Series 2

I have enjoyed many wonderful conversions recently as we prepared the schedule for Inspiration Point Podcast Series 2. We in fact have enough episode potential for half of series 3 too. If you know of anyone who may want to take part and share their story of inspiration, positivity and turning points please ask them to have a look at : https://www.happylifehabits.co.uk/inspiration-point and fill out the simple 10 question form to be considered for an episode.

Series 1 recordings are also available on the same link as is the schedule for Series 2.

We have sharing about:

  • a stand up comedian performing at the Edinburgh Fringe,

  • a mother who for her 40th ran the London Marathon and on crossing the finish line felt empty, unfulfilled and trapped leading to leaving her marriage.

  • Recovery from a sudden, serious brain injury at just 30 years old;

  • Exalted mediator with a firm focus on faith and family;

  • A doctor who is a senior partner in an innovative surgery who was told he would not get into medical school;

  • a lifewalla going from being a loner introvert to outgoing extrovert when needed.

The registration is open for booking the live session episodes.

We have a new VIP PASS For Whole Series: One registration for all 6 Live Episodes £20

+ 1 Gift invite to share to next episode

for details Email Shaileen@HappyLifeHabits.co.uk

Inspiration Point S2 Full Combo.png

A request dear friend and reader.

(1) If you have enjoyed some of the articles I have shared and found useful please reply to shaileen@happylifehabits.co.uk and let me know.

(2) If you are not a subscriber to the Happy Life Habits email list - please sign up.

(3) If you think someone else might benefit from this please share with them.

(4) If you want to engage my services for coaching, speaking or training get in touch and lets see if we can create a win-win result.

If you want to receive articles, information on events and support Happy Life Habits sign up to the join the email list.

Happy Life Habit Events

Happy Life Habits FaceBook Community Group

Happy Life Habits FaceBook Page

Shaileen Shah is a Happiness Coach, Speaker and Trainer. Previously having been in finance technology for the investment banking arm of RBS during the RBS takeover of Natwest, the RBS takeover of ABN Ambro and the financial crisis he has experienced the challenges brought by uncertainty, change and stress. He is certified in The Science of Happiness and shares through Happy Life Habits. Happy Life Habits Positively Impacts Happiness & Well Being Levels by creatively and uniquely combining Personal Development + The Science of Happiness + Spirituality. A business for Good; supporting the UNs Sustainable Development Goals. For more information see HappyLifeHabits.co.uk.

Read More

Live, Love, Learn & Legacy

Twas the night before Christmas …

What a year 2020 has been - no understatement there. I have had highs and highers. The year started with a lovely party celebrating the 40th Birthdays of 2 of our friends. It is ending with us grieving the sudden and quick loss of my dad. What starts must end. Where there is life, there is death. How we live, spend our time, energy and attention between life and death determines our life. In most cases we do not know if we will die today, tomorrow, next week or years from now - therefore life and time is precious.

Twas the night before Christmas …

What a year 2020 has been - no understatement there. I have had highs and highers. The year started with a lovely party celebrating the 40th Birthdays of 2 of our friends. It is ending with us grieving the sudden and quick loss of my dad. What starts must end. Where there is life, there is death. How we live, spend our time, energy and attention between life and death determines our life. In most cases we do not know if we will die today, tomorrow, next week or years from now - therefore life and time is precious.

Two weeks today he went into hospital with an infection that we thought would be treated by antibiotics over a few days. As the day progressed the news worsened to the point we were told he is critical and not sure if he will make it through the night. Next day 3 of us are able to visit him in Intensive Treatment Unit where he is on last stages. Within 40 mins after we have left hospital I take the call to be told he has passed away - this is 36 hours after being admitted to hospital.

Have experienced the whole gamut of emotions and 5 stages of grief. What has helped is looking back at the articles and resources I have previously shared about dealing with grief and death. The support of family, friends and community has helped provide solace as we shared prayers, memories and his qualities. We focused on not what we lost but on what we had and celebrated his life and character. I share some of the funeral service speeches and poems below.

Lalji Shah - Rest In Eternal Peace (11 Dec 2020)

Lalji Shah - Rest In Eternal Peace (11 Dec 2020)

Lessons to Live, Love, Learn and Legacy

  • Where there is grief there is love

  • Life and time are the two best teachers. Life teaches us to make good use of time and time teaches us the value of life.

  • Soul has moved on in its journey, lessons shared

  • Lesson for Life and Love

    • How to treat people both young and old - time, attention, get know and feel special

    • Hospitable, friendly, warm, welcoming smile

    • sharing/generosity - time, advice

            • Smarties, chocolates, mangoes, fruit or beer

    • Commitment, dedication, patience - married for 57 years

    • Integrity, doing things right, finding a way

    • Loving, caring, kind and helpful

    • Service focused - working since aged 15 for 45 years and almost 25 years of those at John Lewis Partnership, Oxford Street

    • Resilience, persistence

    • Learning/growth mindset - adapting, learning, giving things a go

    • Zest for life, positive encouragement

  • Reminded and understand that his Soul has moved on in its spiritual journey

  • Life is not measured in years but in moments of happiness, kindness and consciousness

  • Created and shared many moments of happiness

  • Take a moment of silence to say prayer - 3 Navkars, remember his warm infectious smile

  • May the Soul of Lalji Raichand Mepa Shah Rest in External Peace

  • Om Shanti, Shanti, Shanti

  • Thank you from the families

He Is Gone  David Hawkins

He Is Gone 

You can shed tears that he is gone 

Or you can smile because he has lived 

You can close your eyes and pray that he will come back 

Or you can open your eyes and see all that he has left 

Your heart can be empty because you can’t see him 

Or you can be full of the love that you shared 

You can turn your back on tomorrow and live yesterday 

Or you can be happy for tomorrow because of yesterday 

You can remember him and only that he is gone 

Or you can cherish his memory and let it live on 

You can cry and close your mind, be empty and turn your back 

Or you can do what he would want: smile, open your eyes, love and go on 

Farewell My Friends by Rabindranath Tagore

Farewell My Friends

It was beautiful

As long as it lasted

The journey of my life.

I have no regrets

Whatsoever said

The pain I’ll leave behind.

Those dear hearts

Who love and care...

And the strings pulling

At the heart and soul...

The strong arms

That held me up

When my own strength

Let me down.

At the turning of my life

I came across

Good friends,

Friends who stood by me

Even when time raced me by.

Farewell, farewell My friends

I smile and

Bid you goodbye.

No, shed no tears

For I need them not
All I need is your smile.

If you feel sad

Do think of me

For that’s what I’ll like

When you live in the hearts

Of those you love

Remember then

You never die.

No Ordinary Human 

Dear God,  

How can someone be so giving? 

Asking for nothing in return but your happiness. I guess you gave us, no ordinary human. 

How can someone make you feel so comfortable? Where a moment in his space has a profound effect on yours.  

I guess you gave us, no ordinary human. 

When in his presence you forgot the worlds pressures And we laughed out loud like children. 

I guess you gave, us no ordinary human. 

When I can see his quality in the eyes of his children, so full of kindness & joy. 

I guess you gave, us no ordinary human. 

So God, I ask one favour, take good care of this soul. As I can definitely confirm. 

You lent us for a while, an extraordinary human. 

Tony Herbert  14th December 2020

Written by a friend of the family after a prayer and memory sharing zoom meeting


Looking forward to serving you in 2021

HLH Happy Holidays 2020.png

A request dear friend and reader.

(1) If you have enjoyed some of the articles I have shared and found useful please reply to shaileen@happylifehabits.co.uk and let me know.

(2) If you are not a subscriber to the Happy Life Habits email list - please sign up.

(3) If you think someone else might benefit from this please share with them.

(4) If you want to engage my services for coaching, speaking or training get in touch and lets see if we can create a win-win result.

If you want to receive articles, information on events and support Happy Life Habits sign up to the join the email list.

Happy Life Habit Events

Happy Life Habits FaceBook Community Group

Happy Life Habits FaceBook Page

Shaileen Shah is a Happiness Coach, Speaker and Trainer. Previously having been in finance technology for the investment banking arm of RBS during the RBS takeover of Natwest, the RBS takeover of ABN Ambro and the financial crisis he has experienced the challenges brought by uncertainty, change and stress. He is certified in The Science of Happiness and shares through Happy Life Habits. Happy Life Habits Positively Impacts Happiness & Well Being Levels by creatively and uniquely combining Personal Development + The Science of Happiness + Spirituality. A business for Good; supporting the UNs Sustainable Development Goals. For more information see HappyLifeHabits.co.uk.

Read More

GIVING THANKS ON THANKS GIVING

Thanks Giving is a traditional time when many people reflect on gratitude and give thanks for what they already have. Traditionally Thanksgiving started as a harvest festival to give thanks for the harvest collected.

WHAT CAN YOU GIVE THANKS FOR, BE GRATEFUL FOR THAT YOU ALREADY HAVE IN YOUR LIFE?

Could it be for hot running water? shelter, family, friends, food, heating, transport options, work, study, community, hospitals, etc?

Thanks Giving is a traditional time when many people reflect on gratitude and give thanks for what they already have. Traditionally Thanksgiving started as a harvest festival to give thanks for the harvest collected.

WHAT CAN YOU GIVE THANKS FOR, BE GRATEFUL FOR THAT YOU ALREADY HAVE IN YOUR LIFE?

Could it be for hot running water? shelter, family, friends, food, heating, transport options, work, study, community, hospitals, etc?

The beauty of gratitude is that it amplifies the good we already have, it helps rescue us from negativity or struggles and fosters connection. It heals, gives hope and helps us not feel deflated.

https://www.happylifehabits.co.uk/news/tag/thanksgiving


“Always start with thanksgiving; be thankful for what you already have and see the miracles that come from this one simple act.”
— Jim Rohn

Thank You

Happy Life Habits takes this opportunity to thank all the people and organisations that have supported it during this year either by hosting and event, investing in a service or product, being a speaker, a sponsor, attendee, sharing / liking/encouraging social media posts and reading the articles.

  • Gratitude & Journal Habit Immersion Training Course Attendees

    • June, July, Sept and Nov graduates - 45+

    • The graduates who have gifted or recommended the course

  • HLH Book Club members

  • Happiness Booster, workshop, Inspiration Point attendees

  • Sponsors :

    • Lightside Financial (Priti Shah)

    • Raymond James Stanmore (Kamal Haria)

    • Balance Consultancy (Shandip Shah)

    • Aegis Life Financial (Yogesh Nagpal)

    • Drop Me Limited (Khilan Shah)

    • Vision One to One (Nehul Shah)

  • Speaker Workshop

    • Uday Shah

  • Inspiration Point Podcast speakers

    • Nick Williams

    • Anuj Shah

    • Chantal Coady OBE

    • Sanjay Shah

    • Beejal Coulson

    • Shandip Shah

  • Companies and organisations hosting events or investing in services

    • BVJ

    • HB Accountants

    • David Phillips

    • Xerox

    • Will Writers Society

    • Shree Chandana Vidhya Peeth (SCVP) Jain School

    • Shishukunj

    • Oshwal Association UK

    • Young Jains

    • Help Veer Now

  • Podcast hosts

    • Malini Shah - Mind, Body Heart podcast

    • Camden Boyd - The Happiness Question Podcast

  • Together in Isolation article contributors

  • Bhavik Haria for his 5 day video challenge

  • Happy Life Habits Community

  • Happy Life Habits Team: Harshna and Priti


HLH Thank You.png

https://www.awakin.org/read/view.php?tid=2465

Half A Pomegranate Brian Conroy

Early one morning, the Buddha and his disciples set off on an alms round. He announced that on that day all of the offerings they received would be given to the poor. 

The community sat beneath the red blossoms of a sala tree and waited. Soon all of the most important dignitaries from the surrounding area came to make offerings. 

First to arrive was King Bimbisara. He offered lavish gifts of gold coins, gilded lanterns, and necklaces sparkling with precious gemstones. The Buddha accepted these offerings with one hand. 

Next to arrive was Prince Ajatashatru. He extended offerings of intricate carvings, mouth-watering foods, and sticks of fragrant ox-head sandalwood incense. Again, the Buddha accepted these offerings with one hand. 

These were followed by offerings from minor kings, brahmins, elders and laypeople. The Buddha accepted all of their offerings with a single hand. 

Late in the day, a dishevelled old woman appeared before the Buddha. She bowed respectfully and said, "World Honored One, by the time I heard you were accepting offerings, I had already eaten half of this pomegranate. I am just a poor old woman. The only thing I have to offer is the other half of this pomegranate. I hope you will accept it." 

Those gathered looked on in embarrassment at the old woman's meagre offering. But the Buddha extended both of his hands and gratefully accepted the half a pomegranate. 

When the old woman was gone, the Buddha's disciple Aniruddha asked, "Why did you accept the old woman's offering with both hands, but all of the others with only one hand?" 

The Buddha replied, "This woman gave all she had without expecting reward. I needed both hands to accept such an abundant offering." 


Here is a podcast where I share about gratiude

Shaileen Shah founder of Happy Life Habits speaks about the impact on his mental health whilst working in the Finance / Tech industry and why he has turned to a role of helping people unlock habits that will provide them with more happiness.


A request dear friend and reader.

(1) If you have enjoyed some of the articles I have shared and found useful please reply to shaileen@happylifehabits.co.uk and let me know.

(2) If you are not a subscriber to the Happy Life Habits email list - please sign up.

(3) If you think someone else might benefit from this please share with them.

(4) If you want to engage my services for coaching, speaking or training get in touch and lets see if we can create a win-win result.

If you want to receive articles, information on events and support Happy Life Habits sign up to the join the email list.

Happy Life Habit Events

Happy Life Habits FaceBook Community Group

Happy Life Habits FaceBook Page

Shaileen Shah is a Happiness Coach, Speaker and Trainer. Previously having been in finance technology for the investment banking arm of RBS during the RBS takeover of Natwest, the RBS takeover of ABN Ambro and the financial crisis he has experienced the challenges brought by uncertainty, change and stress. He is certified in The Science of Happiness and shares through Happy Life Habits. Happy Life Habits Positively Impacts Happiness & Well Being Levels by creatively and uniquely combining Personal Development + The Science of Happiness + Spirituality. A business for Good; supporting the UNs Sustainable Development Goals. For more information see HappyLifeHabits.co.uk.

Read More

WHAT DO WE ALL HAVE IN COMMON? COMMUNITY.

This article I am exploring the idea of community. Community has been a great support for me over the years and in particular during the Covid-19 Pandemic as previously written in Together in Isolation. There are many ideas and resources in that article that have helped me and can help you as here in the UK we go into a 2nd national lockdown. The themes covered are:

CONTROL THE CONTROLLABLES NATURE ROUTINE SPIRITUALITY & FAITH

HEALTH HUMOUR & FEEL GOOD CONNECTION MINDFULNESS & PRESENT MOMENT

LEARNING KINDNESS REFLECTION, GRATITUDE AND JOURNALLING


3 of the Inspiration Point guests have contributed to that article before the 1st national lockdown in March 2020.

Photo by Tim Marshall on Unsplash

Photo by Tim Marshall on Unsplash

Happy Diwali and Happy World Kindness Day

The team at Happy Life Habits wish a Happy Diwali and Happy World Kindness Day to those celebrating.

In this short article I am exploring the idea of community. Community has been a great support for me over the years and in particular during the Covid-19 Pandemic as previously written in Together in Isolation. There are many ideas and resources in that article that have helped me and can help you as during 2nd national lockdown. The themes covered are:

CONTROL THE CONTROLLABLES NATURE ROUTINE SPIRITUALITY & FAITH HEALTH HUMOUR & FEEL GOOD MINDFULNESS &  PRESENT MOMENT CONNECTION LEARNING GRATITUDE AND JOURNALLING KINDNESS REFLECTION


Three (Nick Williams, Sanjay Shah and Beejal Coulson) of the Inspiration Point guests have contributed to that article before the 1st national lockdown in March 2020.


Being Part of Communities

Being parts of various communities has been a huge support to me. Recently over a 7 or so day spell in my calendar almost each day was community related activities including Happy Life Habits (HLH). This was :

Thursday : Attending a talk organised by Shishukunj

Sunday : HLH Gratitude & Journal Habit Training Course workshop

Monday: HLH BookClub

Tuesday: HLH Inspiration Point

Wednesday: Diwali meeting for celebrations planned on 14th November by SCVP and Young Jains

Thursday: Co-Facilitating Young Jains Enriching Conversations on these of Diwali: Shine the Right Light

Friday : Teaching at SCVP Jain School

Happy Diwali to those celebrating. Happy World Kindness Day - 13th Nov.

I enjoy and learn from being part of those communities and feel connected.

We also received good news that the HelpVeerNow campaign shared. Through their efforts to get more people registered on donor databases to increase the chances of finding a bone marrow match for Veer; a registrant in India has been found to be match for another person - saving a life. Without the HelpVeerNow campaign and community the donor may not have registered. This gives hope that a match can be found for Veer. Register and tell others to register, details at www.HelpVeerNow.org

What is Community

From wikipedia

community is a social unit (a group of living things) with commonality such as norms, religion, values, customs, or identity. Communities may share a sense of place situated in a given geographical area (e.g. a country, village, town, or neighbourhood) or in virtual space through communication platforms. Durable relations that extend beyond immediate genealogical ties also define a sense of community, important to their identity, practice, and roles in social institutions such as family, home, work, government, society, or humanity at large. Although communities are usually small relative to personal social ties, "community" may also refer to large group affiliations such as national communities, international communities, and virtual communities.

The English-language word "community" derives from the Old French comuneté (currently "Communauté"), which comes from the Latin communitas "community", "public spirit" (from Latin communis, "common")


From the Jain faith we have the concept of interdependence shared as …

Parasparopagraho Jīvānām (Sanskrit) is a Jain aphorism from the Tattvārtha Sūtra [5.21]. It is translated as "Souls render service to one another". It is also translated as, "All life is bound together by mutual support and interdependence." These translations are virtually the same (by virtue, that is), because Jains believe that every living being, from a plant or a bacterium to human, has a soul and the concept forms the very basis of Jainism.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Parasparopagraho_Jivanam

On reading the chapter on Ego from Think Like a Monk by Jay Shetty in preparation for the next HLH Book Club session he quotes the Dalai Lama as saying

Under the bright sun, many of us are gathered together with different languages, different styles of dress, even different faiths. However all of us are the same in being human beings, we all uniquely have the thought of “I” and we’re all the same wanting happiness and in wanting to avoid suffering


Happy Life Habits (HLH) has been working hard to serve and cultivate a community of people who want to positively impact happiness and well-being levels. When we are happy, kind, optimistic or hopeful by contagion the people around us also feel that. An act of kindness done to one person ripples out to 6 others and then with each of those 6 rippling to another 6 for three further levels.

Through the HLH Community FaceBook group, the workshops, Inspiration Point, Book Club, Habit training courses we seek to bring people together, have a sense of connection, share inspiration, support each other and build a positive community.

If this resonates with you, you can help us with the crowdfunding campaign running for a few week. You can donate, claim a reward such as a journal, workshop or a place on the Gratitude and Journal Habit Immersion Training Course starting 4th January 2021. If we reach our target and meet some other criteria, the Mayor of London will give us additional funding which will allow us to do more for free or low cost.

https://payitforward.london.gov.uk/hlh-sharing-positivity-resilience

Many thanks to those who have already supported and shared the campaign.


Over the remaining part of this year we have a few events detailed on the events page.

These include:

  • Last Episode of Inspiration Point Series 1 : 24th November

  • Manage Your Mindset and Money Workshop : 1st December (in collaboration with Priti Shah from LightSide Financial)

  • Remaining Gratitude & Journal Habit Immersion Training Course sessions for November (you can secure place for £60 instead of £75 via crowdfunding)

  • Looking back, Looking Forward Workshop : 13 Dec (TBC) (sign up via crowdfunding)


A request dear friend and reader.

(1) If you have enjoyed some of the articles I have shared and found useful please reply to shaileen@happylifehabits.co.uk and let me know.

(2) If you are not a subscriber to the Happy Life Habits email list - please sign up.

(3) If you think someone else might benefit from this please share with them.

(4) If you want to engage my services for coaching, speaking or training get in touch and lets see if we can create a win-win result.

If you want to receive articles, information on events and support Happy Life Habits sign up to the join the email list.

Happy Life Habit Events

Happy Life Habits FaceBook Community Group

Happy Life Habits FaceBook Page

Shaileen Shah is a Happiness Coach, Speaker and Trainer. Previously having been in finance technology for the investment banking arm of RBS during the RBS takeover of Natwest, the RBS takeover of ABN Ambro and the financial crisis he has experienced the challenges brought by uncertainty, change and stress. He is certified in The Science of Happiness and shares through Happy Life Habits. Happy Life Habits Positively Impacts Happiness & Well Being Levels by creatively and uniquely combining Personal Development + The Science of Happiness + Spirituality. A business for Good; supporting the UNs Sustainable Development Goals. For more information see HappyLifeHabits.co.uk.

Read More

TAKE MY BREATH AWAY : THE INEVITABLE - DEATH, THE END OF LIVING - ONE YEAR ON

The theme of death and loss is back in my awareness. Over the months we have explored it in Young Jains Enriching Conversations. Many friends, family and people in the community over the last 2 weeks have lost a close loved one. I shared with them an article I wrote last year upon the death of a close friend, Bobby Shah, on 15th October. The article has my thoughts feelings and also some resources that may help. Since originally writing it almost exactly a year ago I have shared it with many and edited to include a wonderful podcast from commune. Really do check out the article and resources - share with those who you may know are dealing with the loss of a loved one.

The theme of death and loss is back in my awareness. Over the months we have explored it in Young Jains Enriching Conversations. Many friends, family and people in the community over the last 2 weeks have lost a close loved one. I shared with them an article I wrote last year upon the death of a close friend, Bobby Shah, on 15th October. The article has my thoughts feelings and also some resources that may help. Since originally writing it almost exactly a year ago I have shared it with many and edited to include a wonderful podcast from commune. Really do check out the article and resources - share with those who you may know are dealing with the loss of a loved one.

https://www.happylifehabits.co.uk/news/2019/10/17/the-inevitable-death



As shared in a recent post I celebrated my 50th birthday and covered connection and time as themes. Over the birthday weekend I have great zoom catch ups with a variety of people from the different communities I am part of. It was lovely. Last year when thinking about planning celebrations for my 50th, I had seen Bobby as part of the celebrations as we continued to share milestones in our lives.

In the Happy Life Habits Book Club we are reading Jay Shetty’s Think Like A Monk. In the first section “Letting Go” chapter 3 is titled Fear. The quote for the chapter is:

Fear does not prevent death. It prevents life. - Buddha


At the start of the book it shares that at the start of life we breathe and at the end of life we take our last breath. Important to be aware of our breathing as it is connection to our emotions.


THERE IS A THIEF IN THE CITY

Below is a Kabir Cafe T-shirt I have based on a poem by the legendary 15th Centuary mystic and poet Kabir. It has been made into a lovely fusion song by Neeraj Arya’s Kabir Cafe. The title is “Be alert there is a thief in the city”. It is referring to death. Listen to the song in the video below and read the translation.

Kabir Cafe T-Shirt - Be Alert, Death is in the neighbourhood

Kabir Cafe T-Shirt - Be Alert, Death is in the neighbourhood

Here is a great video from karmatube on the idea of a death walker : https://www.karmatube.org/videos.php?id=8662

WHAT SEEDS ARE YOU PLANTING?

Many a time I have contemplated on that each day we live we get closer to death. The true deadline. What we have to do is keep this in our awareness from time to time so that we can truly live, be fulfilled instead of deal with the mundane. Each moment counts and the more moments shared with happiness, kindness and love the happier our lives. From the 7 Habits of Highly Effective People by Dr Stephen Covey, Habit 2 is Begin with the End in Mind. There is a great exercise where we do begin with the end in my and contemplate our funeral and consider what we want people to say about us at that time. This helps us see what is important in our live and the values we want to cultivate.

This week on a small pot plant on the window sill emerges signs of life. It is either chillis or capsicums - those we the seeds planted.

Seedlings growing

Seedlings growing

Check out www.HappyLifeHabits.co.uk for Inspiration Point episodes to book tickets and watch recordings as well as book Gratitude Workshop and Gratitude & Journal Habit Immersion Training Course.


A request dear friend and reader.

(1) If you have enjoyed some of the articles I have shared and found useful please reply to shaileen@happylifehabits.co.uk and let me know.

(2) If you are not a subscriber to the Happy Life Habits email list - please sign up.

(3) If you think someone else might benefit from this please share with them.

(4) If you want to engage my services for coaching, speaking or training get in touch and lets see if we can create a win-win result.

If you want to receive articles, information on events and support Happy Life Habits sign up to the join the email list.

Happy Life Habit Events

Happy Life Habits FaceBook Community Group

Happy Life Habits FaceBook Page

Shaileen Shah is a Happiness Coach, Speaker and Trainer. Previously having been in finance technology for the investment banking arm of RBS during the RBS takeover of Natwest, the RBS takeover of ABN Ambro and the financial crisis he has experienced the challenges brought by uncertainty, change and stress. He is certified in The Science of Happiness and shares through Happy Life Habits. Happy Life Habits Positively Impacts Happiness & Well Being Levels by creatively and uniquely combining Personal Development + The Science of Happiness + Spirituality. A business for Good; supporting the UNs Sustainable Development Goals. For more information see HappyLifeHabits.co.uk.

Read More

Happy Birthday - Time to Connect

I write this on the eve of turning 50. What to say? These birthday celebrations are way different from what we had in mind last year or even at the beginning of this year. We were making plans to have family from USA and Kenya come visit during the summer and arrange a few get togethers with both sides of the families - both in terms of mine and my wife’s as well as both in terms of my dad’s and mum’s side. This is a lot of people. The celebrations would be for my son turning 16, completing GCSE exams and me turning 50. With the pandemic issue we can’t have more than 6 people meet.

I remember before I turned 24, I had just started my first real job and career out of university. I was a junior consultant in a US based technology consulting firm. I had been to Cambridge, Massachusetts for month long orientation training. During one weekend we had driven to New York, the Big Apple. I was then back in the UK working on projects, work then had become quieter in the UK. During September they shipped a few of out to projects in the USA. I ended up in Lansing, Michigan for a good few weeks. One weekend we took off to Lake Michigan - more like am ocean than a lake. I ended up spending my birthday weekend driving with a friend to Toronto, Canada where he had his family. I was away from family and friends. Being with my friend and his family was fine but I felt alone and did not enjoy that birthday experience. I enjoy being around people, especially family and friends and I enjoy celebration birthdays. Happy Birthday - I has HAPPY in the phrase and it has Birth - Life, so a Happiness Coach calling his company Happy Life Habits loves celebrating birthdays be they his own or others.

I was reminded by Facebook of a post from a few years ago which is a real treasure and I share here which share the difference between a contact and connection.


A Monk of the RamaKrishna Mission was being interviewed by a journalist from NY.

Journalist - "Sir, in your last lecture, you told us about Jogajog (contact) & Sanjog (connection). It's really confusing. Can you explain ? "

The Monk smiled and apparently deviating from the question asked the journalist:

"Are you from New York?"

Journalist - "Yeh..."

Monk - "Who are there at home?”

The Journalist felt that the Monk was trying to avoid answering his question since this was a very personal and unwarranted question. Yet the journalist said: “Mother has expired. Father is there. Three brothers and one sister. All married..."

The Monk, with a smile on his face, asked again: “Do you talk to your father?"

The journalist looked visibly annoyed...

The Monk - “When did you talk to him last?"

The journalist, supressing his annoyance said: "May be a month ago."

The Monk: “Do you brothers and sisters meet often? When did you meet last as a family gathering?"

At this point, sweat appeared on the forehead of the journalist. Now who was conducting the interview, the Monk or the Journalist? It seemed that the Monk was interviewing the Journalist.

With a sigh, the Journalist said: “We met last at Christmas two years ago."

The Monk: “How many days did you all stay together ?"

The Journalist (wiping the sweat on his brow) said: “Three days..."

Monk: "How much time did you spend with your Father, sitting right beside him?"

The journalist looking perplexed and embarrassed and started scribbling something on a paper...

The Monk: "Did you have breakfast, lunch or dinner together? Did you ask how he was? Did you ask how his days are passing after your mother's death?"

Drops of tears coming out started to flow from the eyes of the journalist.

The Monk held the hand of the journalist and said: “Don't be embarrassed, upset or sad. I am sorry if I have hurt you unknowingly... But this is basically the answer to your question about "contact and connection (Jogajog and Sanjog)". You have 'contact' with your father but you don't have 'connection' with him. You are not connected to him. Connection is between heart and heart... sitting together, sharing meals and caring for each other ; touching, shaking hands, having eye contact, spending some time together...You brothers and sisters have 'contact' but you have no 'connection' with each other...."

The journalist wiped his eyes and said: "Thanks for teaching me a fine and unforgettable lesson"

This is the reality today. Whether at home or in the society everybody has lots of contacts but there is no connection. No communication... Everybody is in his or her own world.

Let us not maintain just "contacts" but let us remain "connected"; caring, sharing and spending time with all our dear ones.

*****

The Monk was none other than Swami Vivekananda


Lessons Learned at 50

There are many people who have come into my life, there are many mistakes made, lessons learned, many inspirers, many joyous moments and continue to do so. Some of these lessons relate to a few themes.

TIME is our most precious resource. We don’t know how much we have left so use it wisely.

CONNECTION is central to our existence. The much loved and shared Brene Brown quote says it all. Check out this awesome blog on connection.

We have 3 main relationships or connections:

  1. with our self

  2. with others

  3. with our higher self, nature, universe, God

The Happy Life Habits logo is all about connection, it is a connected pieces of a jigsaw puzzle.

The below quote was share on HLH Community group when within a few days we developed the HLH Book Club. Thanks Mary T for inspiring it.

‘Time is our most precious resource. We should not waste it. If it fits with my mission, serves, feels right, positively impacts, makes me smile, adds to the greater good, enthuses and inspires me and have the opportunity to be with wonderful like minded people - why wait?
— Shaileen Shah.

Manage your TIME, ENERGY & ATTENTION

I am hoping to share sessions on this in 2021

HABITS OF THE HEART & SOUL : GRATITUDE, COMPASSION, KINDNESS, LOVE, FORGIVENESS, MINDFULNESS

return wonderful returns when developed - they are all about connection.

Our life is made up of a series of moments. We live moment to moment. The more happy moments we can have and create the happier our life will be.
— Shaileen Shah - Happiness Coach


All the current Happy Life Habit projects and activities relate to these themes : The Happiness Boosters, The Gratitude Workshop, The Gratitude and Journal Habit Immersion Course, The HLH Book Club and the newly launched Inspiration Point. I look forward to connecting with you and being part of the Happy Life Habits Community with you.

Many thanks to all the attendees, participants, partners, supporters and sponsors.

With Love, Warmth, Gratitude and Kindness

Shaileen Shah - The Happiness Coach - 50 Years Old - still got a long way to go.


A request dear friend and reader.

(1) If you have enjoyed some of the articles I have shared and found useful please reply to shaileen@happylifehabits.co.uk and let me know.

(2) If you are not a subscriber to the Happy Life Habits email list - please sign up.

(3) If you think someone else might benefit from this please share with them.

(4) If you want to engage my services for coaching, speaking or training get in touch and lets see if we can create a win-win result.

If you want to receive articles, information on events and support Happy Life Habits sign up to the join the email list.

Happy Life Habit Events

Happy Life Habits FaceBook Community Group

Happy Life Habits FaceBook Page

Shaileen Shah is a Happiness Coach, Speaker and Trainer. Previously having been in finance technology for the investment banking arm of RBS during the RBS takeover of Natwest, the RBS takeover of ABN Ambro and the financial crisis he has experienced the challenges brought by uncertainty, change and stress. He is certified in The Science of Happiness and shares through Happy Life Habits. Happy Life Habits Positively Impacts Happiness & Well Being Levels by creatively and uniquely combining Personal Development + The Science of Happiness + Spirituality. A business for Good; supporting the UNs Sustainable Development Goals. For more information see HappyLifeHabits.co.uk.

Read More

To Be or Not to Be? – That is the question or is it a choice? Be a Caterpillar, Become a Butterfly

This article is about learning, change growth, development and transformation.

This article is about learning, change growth, development and transformation.


Until you value yourself you will not value your time. Until you value your time, you will not do anything with it.
— M.Scott. Peck

The Success People Vs Unsuccessful people graphic I remember seeing many years ago, I loved it the moment I saw it and printed a few colour copies and had put up in bedroom and books. Does not need any more comment. Have a read and see what resonates and where gaps are for you.

Not sure of source - had seen many years ago

Not sure of source - had seen many years ago

We know what we are, but know not what we may be.
— William Shakespeare

This fabulous video from Master Shi Heng Yi sharing about Self Mastery is steeped with so much wisdom and insight. I have watched a few times and each time gained something. It really resonates with me and I see connection to my faith and spiritual path.

To Be or Not to Be? – That is a question or is it a choice?
Be a Caterpillar, Become a Butterfly

By a Wanna Be Butterfly Shaileen Shah 26 Sep 2017

Dedicated to all the teachers and inspirers past, present and future; who have guided us to make this world better by making ourselves better. Lessons, values, guidelines, way of living learnt through family, friends, films, books, seminars, workshops, talks, teachers, TED talks, newsletters, articles, blogs, conversations and ponderings.


Behind you lies the past
Before you awaits the future
Be present, be here, now

Be blissful, joyful, happy and peaceful
Be conscious, conscientious, insightful and natural
Be energetic, be moving, be moved and be still
Be a seeker, aspirer, Divine, graceful and of service
Be wholesome, authentic, an observer and a witness

Be grateful, humble, generous and giving
Be charitable, donor, giver and receiver
Be compassionate, kind, caring and loving
Be forgiving, honest, straightforward and content

Be awake, alive, awesome, extraordinary and wonderful
Be careful, respectful, carefree and tolerant
Be a follower, leader, trailblazer and a guide
Be on The Path, be off the beaten track

Be the light, beacon, role model and mentor
Be a teacher, student, learning, teachable and sharer
Be growing, nurturing, developing and blossoming

Be listening, consoling, be consultative, and approachable
Be flexible, adaptable, open and perspective shifting
Be encouraging, supportive, dependable and helpful
Be proactive, responsible, accountable and resourceful
Be cooperative, patient, synergistic and part of the solution
Be going the extra mile, adding value, not giving up and keep moving forward

Be positive, enthusiastic, insightful and optimistic
Be focussed, steadfast, persistent, grounded and centred
Be brave, courageous, bold and fearless
Be creative, imaginative, visionary, daring and clear
Be connected, a team player, performer and game changer
Be prepared, planned, ready, organised and spontaneous

Be engaging, gregarious, humorous and funny
Be hospitable, welcoming, warm and big hearted
Be trustworthy, trusting, loyal, complete and full of integrity
Be mindful, aware, attentive, tuned in and be there
Be inquisitive, curious, and adventurous

Be healthy, wealthy and wise
Be better today than you were yesterday
Believe in yourself, have faith and move mountains
Be reflective, contemplative, introspective and meditative
Be the change, be transformative, evolving and a catalyst
Be the best that you can be, a masterpiece, unique and special
Be yourself, realise your potential and be free

Be a caterpillar, become a butterfly
Too busy to just be?
Be reminded it is a choice to be or not to be

Just Be.

— Shaileen Shah - Happiness Coach

A request dear friend and reader.

(1) If you have enjoyed some of the articles I have shared and found useful please reply to shaileen@happylifehabits.co.uk and let me know.

(2) If you are not a subscriber to the Happy Life Habits email list - please sign up.

(3) If you think someone else might benefit from this please share with them.

(4) If you want to engage my services for coaching, speaking or training get in touch and lets see if we can create a win-win result.

If you want to receive articles, information on events and support Happy Life Habits sign up to the join the email list.

Happy Life Habit Events

Happy Life Habits FaceBook Community Group

Happy Life Habits FaceBook Page

Happy Life Habits WhatsApp Group


Shaileen Shah is a Happiness Coach, Speaker and Trainer. Previously having been in finance technology for the investment banking arm of RBS during the RBS takeover of Natwest, the RBS takeover of ABN Ambro and the financial crisis he has experienced the challenges brought by uncertainty, change and stress. He is certified in The Science of Happiness and shares through Happy Life Habits. Happy Life Habits Positively Impacts Happiness & Well Being Levels by creatively and uniquely combining Personal Development + The Science of Happiness + Spirituality. A business for Good; supporting the UNs Sustainable Development Goals. For more information see HappyLifeHabits.co.uk.

Read More

Mental Health Awareness Week - Saturday Live Event 9:30 -10:30 am

Read More