It’s that time of year again, when we strategize myriad ways to drop the terrible habits we have picked up over the past year(s) and resolve to improve. Lose that unsightly ten pounds. Stop smoking. Exercise. Sounds a little daunting, and not a lot of fun. If you want to turn a resolution into a habit, let’s heed the formula of Pleasure plus Purpose = Happiness. If you’re going to exercise, go with a group of existing or new friends. Take a salsa dancing class, aquasize or enrol in group fitness offerings. Add that pleasure component. Want to lose weight? Take a cooking class that focuses on healthy foods. Meet new people to go with your new skills. The more pleasure that you include in the purpose of improving, will greatly enhance the chances of developing a life-long habit, not a few trips to the gym that terminate in February!

Embracing this formula can revolutionize the way we approach our goals. It's not just about the end result but the journey to get there. Incorporating pleasure into our endeavors transforms them from dreaded tasks to enjoyable experiences. Imagine looking forward to your workout because it's also your social hour, or relishing the meals you cook because they're not just healthy, but delicious and created in good company. This method shifts our perspective from seeing resolutions as burdens to viewing them as opportunities for joy and personal growth.

As we enter the new year, I invite you to join me in this transformative approach. And to further guide and inspire you on this journey, keep an eye out for my upcoming book, "Happiness: The 40% Solution", set to release soon. This book delves deeper into the principles of intertwining pleasure with purpose, offering practical advice and insights to make happiness a habit. Together, let's make this year not just about change, but about happiness and fulfillment.

Hi there, I'm Ron Morris, and if you're wondering whether my book, "Happiness: The 40% Solution," can really boost your happiness by 40%, I'm here to tell you, 'Absolutely – give or take a smile!' I've always believed that understanding happiness shouldn't be as dreary as a rainy Monday morning.

We often think our happiness is like a leaf in the wind, blown about by external happenings, from infuriating traffic jams to unexpected life twists. But what if I told you that you've got more control over your happiness than your TV remote? That's right, up to 40% more joy, and the best part? It's free!

In my book, I mix a spoonful of humour with a cup of practical wisdom. It’s all about turning the science of positive psychology into fun, bite-sized morsels you can actually use. Ever wondered how your social media scrolling affects your mood? Or how saying thanks can make you happier than finding a $20 bill in your old jeans? I’ve got you covered.

But don't just take my word for it! The early reviews are in, and they're looking pretty sunny. Foreword Clarion Reviews says, “The upbeat self-help book 'Happiness' functions like a greatest hits compilation of academic and professional findings on its topic: improving the human mindset through happiness.” And Kirkus Reviews adds, “A lively, empowering roundup of happiness studies and tools.”

It's for everyone who's ever felt bogged down by life's challenges, from the big 'T' traumas to the daily grind of 'why did I walk into this room again?' I believe that while knowledge is a powerful tool, it's the steps you take that turn the cogs of change. So, let's embark on a journey to bump up that happiness meter, one chuckle at a time!

Oh, and here's a little insider info: I've been busy recording the audiobook version, which will also be hitting the shelves soon. So, for those who prefer to listen to their laughter, stay tuned!

"Happiness: The 40% Solution" goes on sale early in the new year. Get ready to turn those frowns upside down! 📚😄🎧

If you've got even a hint of my culinary inclinations, you know that a good chunk of joy comes from what we pop into our mouths. But here's a zinger: what we eat doesn’t just tickle our taste buds; it plays a lead role in our happiness parade. That's right, folks – the gut is doing a tango with the brain!

Now, you might think that diving into a mountain of poutine, gobbling up three hefty slices of pepperoni pizza, capping it off with a chocolate chip cookie, and washing it all down with a Diet Pepsi (seriously, why is it always Diet Pepsi?) is your express ticket to bliss town. Well, I hate to burst your grease-soaked bubble, but that's not quite how it works.

Let’s not wade too deep into the science-y swamp (and yes, 'science-y' is a word – my author status grants me word-inventing powers), but it's important to know that poor gut health is like a party pooper for your mental state, potentially leading to uninvited guests like depression and anxiety. That aforementioned feast? Not exactly a helper in the happiness department.

Fear not, for I bring tidings of gut-pleasing delights! Swap out the grease-fest for some probiotic superstars like yogurt, sauerkraut, kimchi, and the underdog hero, miso. Oh, miso, you dark horse, potentially fending off cancer, hypertension, and obesity – who knew?

And let's not forget about some cheese champions – cheddar, gouda, and mozzarella. Semi-hard but fully beneficial for a happiness boost.

Last but not least, who can overlook the humble, everyday pickle? Picture this: a slice of pickle and cheese lounging on a healthy cracker. If that doesn’t spell out a happier you, I don’t know what will.

So, do your brain (and your taste buds) a solid – treat your gut like royalty. Your happiness meter will thank you for it! 🧀🥒🥣

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Hey there, happiness seekers! Are you ready to unlock the secrets to a happier life? Well, buckle up because Ron Morris' upcoming book, "Happiness: The 40% Solution," is about to take you on a joyride! 

Before you dive into the book, here's a little teaser of what's in store for you:

1️⃣ Foster Good Relationships - Forget about those 3,000 Facebook friends. We're talking real, laugh-till-you-cry, always-there-for-you kind of relationships. According to the Harvard Study of Adult Development, these are your golden tickets to happiness. 

2️⃣ Be Grateful - It turns out, gratitude isn't just for Thanksgiving! Grateful people are like walking, talking sunshine.  So, start jotting down those blessings and spread some thank-you's like confetti! 

3️⃣ Control 40% of Your Happiness - No, you can't control your DNA (thanks, Mom and Dad!), but 40% of your happiness is in your hands. Time to take the wheel! 

4️⃣ Rethink What Makes You Happy - Spoiler alert: Money can't buy happiness. Neither does a new nose or a six-pack (abs, not beers!). It's the simple things, folks. 

5️⃣ Kindness = Happiness - From holding doors to mega-donations (shoutout to Ryan Reynolds and Dolly Parton!), kindness is a happiness boomerang. Throw some out there and watch it come right back! 

6️⃣ Social Media: Friend or Foe? - Sure, it keeps us connected, but if scrolling leaves you feeling more 😒 than 😊, it might be time for a digital detox. 

​Intrigued? You should be! And guess what, there's more where that came from. 
👉 Check out this video to dive deeper into the world of "Happiness: The 40% Solution": https://youtu.be/x5pjp2JdaQY 🎥

​Get ready to embark on a journey to a happier you with Ron Morris as your guide. Seatbelts fastened? Let's go! 

​If you think back on your happiest moments, I bet they're sprinkled with laughter, shared with loved ones, and wrapped in cherished traditions. Maybe it's that exhilarating leap into a cool lake at your family's cabin, the sweet taste of Aunt Ethel's famous pumpkin pie at Thanksgiving, or dancing around the Christmas tree in a living room filled with joy and jingles.

One of my most treasured traditions involves our family's artificial Christmas tree, a symbol of joy and a reminder of a rather adventurous past. Nearly four decades ago, just before the holiday season, my wife Karen and I, along with our three kids, embarked on a quest. Our mission? To ditch the usual parking lot tree-buying ritual and venture out to a tree farm, not more than an hour from our home.

The day was crisp, the air breezy, and the mood adventurous as we set out in search of the perfect tree. After a diligent search, we triumphantly found our prize. But then, as if on cue, our story took a twist. Amidst a heavy snowfall and a howling gale, we realized we couldn't find our car. Our tracks were swallowed by the snow, and there we were, wandering in circles until, by sheer luck, we stumbled upon a road that led us back to our vehicle. Shaken, but with spirits unbroken, we made a vow that day – no more live trees for us.

The following year, we embraced the artificial tree with a twist. Clad in winter gear, we 'hunted' for our tree in the basement, a tradition that continued year after year. While the excitement faded for the older kids, our youngest kept the spirit alive. Rain or shine, or even snowstorms, he'd make the journey home to partake in this quirky ritual. Now, with his family joining in, our tree decorating debates mainly revolve around one critical question: more lights?

This year marks our 38th consecutive celebration of this whimsical tradition. It's a simple yet profound joy that rivals the entire festive season for me. And it makes me wonder, what tradition fills your heart with happiness?

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And don't forget, in the new year, keep an eye out for my upcoming book, "Happiness: The 40% Solution," where I delve deeper into the joys and traditions that shape our lives.

Also, take a moment to follow my Instagram and Facebook pages!

​In an era that feels like an eternity ago, amid the global pause brought on by Covid-19, the esteemed confines of the Saskatoon Club played host to an enlightening series of Mastermind sessions. These gatherings, orchestrated by my partner and me, were devoted to the art of Leadership, subtly interwoven with lessons on achieving Happiness. Today, we stand at the threshold of a revival, this time with Happiness taking center stage, complemented by essential Leadership insights.

I'm thrilled to announce my latest literary endeavor, "Happiness: the 40% Solution," which will serve as the cornerstone of our upcoming Happiness Mastermind sessions. This pivotal work delves into the empowering concept that nearly half of our happiness quotient is within our grasp, awaiting our active engagement. Imagine the possibility of diminishing the shadows of depression and stress simply by enhancing our capacity for joy. And in a cheeky nod to the notion of self-improvement, I pose the question: Isn't it time to "up yours" in terms of happiness?

For those unacquainted with the Mastermind format, it is a synergistic group coaching model designed to foster collective growth and individual insight. Comprising approximately eight participants, these sessions are tailored to ensure each voice is not only heard but valued, with every shared idea treated as a potential catalyst for transformation. Spanning a concise series of weeks, our Mastermind is a sanctuary of safety and collaboration, where laughter is the soundtrack and all perspectives are received with an open heart.

The role of facilitators is to ignite conversation and provoke thought, while the true wisdom emanates from within the group dynamic itself.
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Join us as we embark on this transformative journey to harness the "40% Solution," elevating not just our spirits but fundamentally reshaping our approach to life's leadership challenges.

Please follow me on Facebook! I'll keep you posted about the release of my upcoming book: Happiness, the 40% solution.

It's been said that good things come to those who wait. And wait. And wait a bit more. If you've been holding your breath since my last book, "The Power of WOW! Customer Service," I hope you've got some impressive lung capacity. Remember when I cheekily signed off with, "Let’s do it again, real soon"? Well, in the grand tapestry of time, "real soon" translated to a cool 20 years. Who knew?
 
Now, you might be wondering, did I take a two-decade nap, channeling my inner Rip Van Winkle? Or perhaps I was penning secret tales from a prison cell? While those scenarios paint quite the picture, the reality is a tad less dramatic. The truth? I was on a quest for inspiration. Sure, I've had my fair share of Customer Service and Leadership escapades, but it felt like every angle had been explored, every story told. I was stirred, but not shaken.
 
Enter my latest brainchild, "Happiness: The 40% Solution." This book is my magnum opus, striking all the right chords. The crux? A whopping 40% of our happiness is within our control. Imagine getting a 40% discount on your next car or bagging 40% extra groceries without spending an extra dime. Sounds enticing, right? Now, what if I told you that you could apply the same principle to your happiness quotient? Intrigued? You should be.

Please follow me on Facebook and Instagram! I'll keep you posted about the release of my upcoming book: Happiness, the 40% solution.