You probably already know how easily life flows when you’re happy. Would you be surprised to know that some people choose happiness? You might even know someone who chooses unhappiness. It’s a lot easier. For the people around them, however, their constant complaining is draining.
Image “Put your hands up in the air” by Thomas Leuthard, Flickr, CC-By-2.0
Yep, it’s a choice to be happy. It’s not always easy.
Whatever name you give it, when you are happy your life is much better. Time disappears. Everything seems easier.
I have the Chinese character of Tao hanging on my wall among the photos that make me happy.
Imagine a pleasant summer morning. The world seems a bit lazier today. You hear the birds singing as you make your way to work. The sunlight warms your head. You hear your favorite song just before you arrive. Your smile is mirrored back to you by a coworker.
You know it’s going to be a great day. Confirmation bias will help to ensure it. (more…)
You like things? I like things! It’s hard not to, am I right?
Liking others, and being likable, is essential in the art of persuasion. People don’t help or support those they dislike.
Photo “CL Society 218: Crossing arms” by Francisco Osorio, Flickr, CC-By-2.0
But what if the things that someone likes aren’t capable of reciprocating that affection? They’ll forever support that, too.
People will dismiss an opportunity for improvement or learning if it means they might have to question their behavior… or their access to a favorite treat.
I could never eat healthy — I like cookies too much!
I love my morning Frappachino!*
Well, I don’t smoke that much.
This represents the most insidious of all the Liking: Consumables. Food, soda, beer, drugs.
*It’s 2017 — is Frappachino still a thing? (more…)
I decided long ago that I like Coca Cola products.
First, I enjoyed the flavor of Coke. That sweet, sweet fizz… Soon I “liked” everything the company produced. I advocated for Coca-Cola products of all varieties, even the ones I didn’t drink!
“Coca-Cola Glass Waiter in Background” by Kevin James, Flickr, CC-By-2.0
By extension, I decided I didn’t like Coke’s rivals. I avoided them, to match my new public identity.
Cognitive science has demonstrated that once someone publicly announces a position on a topic, that person rarely changes his mind. Any new evidence or challenge against that believe will backfire, causing the believer to dig in deeper.
Think about it — how many arguments have you really won? People almost never change their minds! (more…)
Want the secrets to better copy?
Hey, Jeffrey here, direct response copywriter and growth partner.
I’m not immediately taking new clients.
But if you join the waitlist, I’ll send you info about persuasion, motivation, and influence.