Episode #379 – Want to be happier? Here’s how.

This is Episode 379 of the Brilliant Balance Podcast, and today we’re talking about how to be happier. I can’t wait to get into this topic with you today, but before I do, I want to share a very fun opportunity happening at the end of February.

I mentioned this a few weeks ago on the show if you are a frequent listener, but now it’s time to make a decision if this is something you want to be a part of. In partnership with Canyon Ranch, the premier wellness resort in the country, I’ve been invited to headline a retreat specifically for women in leadership. It will be held at their Woodside, California property, just outside San Francisco. Thankfully, it’s located away from the areas affected by wildfires in Southern California. The property is nestled in the heart of the redwoods, offering a breathtaking landscape. If you visit their website, you’ll see just how delightful this property is.

The retreat dates are February 27th through March 3rd, 2025. I’ll be on-site the entire time, from Thursday through Monday, and I’ll be teaching sessions on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday. For my listeners, you can get 10% off your stay by using the code SHERYLANN when you book. You don’t have to attend the entire retreat; you can come for part of the experience. However, I’ll be there the whole time, hosting three key sessions.

One session focuses on our core message of designing a big, full life that you have time to enjoy. Another centers on managing stress and avoiding burnout. The third addresses the practices of rest, renewal, and reflection—an area where many ambitious women face challenges. These sessions will include best practices for incorporating rhythms of renewal into your life, not just while you’re on a retreat, but on an ongoing basis.

Canyon Ranch is designed as a holistic wellness experience, aligning perfectly with my values and beliefs. The experiences on-site are truly restorative and wellness-focused. The resort is regularly ranked as the premier wellness destination in the country. My code, CHERYLANNE, is valid for any stay at any Canyon Ranch property at any time, but I would love for you to consider this particular retreat where we can share the experience together.

If you’ve heard me talk about taking clients to the Tucson, Arizona property, this will be similar but offers more individualized experiences. Canyon Ranch provides white-glove treatment from the moment you land in San Francisco, including transportation, meals, activities, and sessions. You’ll have a daily activity allowance for premium options like spa services, which you can supplement with additional paid services.

I’ll include the direct link to my event and dates in the show notes, along with the code CHERYLANNE for your 10% discount.

Now, let’s move into today’s episode about happiness. This is such a favorite topic because the desire to be happier is universal. Most people, when asked what they want, will say, “I want to be happy.” It’s a core human desire.

Recently, my husband and I started watching Ted Lasso because he missed it the first time around. One of my favorite lines from the show is, “Don’t you dare settle for fine.” Roy Kent says this to Rebecca, and it’s about not settling. I hate the idea of settling. Yet, we often settle for a level of happiness or fulfillment below our personal threshold. We convince ourselves that we’re fine, but deep down, we want more.

We often confuse two distinct types of happiness: hedonic happiness and eudaimonic happiness. Hedonic happiness is achieved through pleasure and enjoyment—the fun version of happiness. However, it’s fleeting and can lead to what’s known as the hedonic treadmill, where we constantly chase short-term satisfaction.

Eudaimonic happiness, on the other hand, is about meaning and purpose. It’s longer-lasting and more deeply fulfilling. A truly happy life combines both types. If you’re exclusively pursuing hedonic happiness, you may have fun but feel unfulfilled. Conversely, focusing solely on eudaimonic happiness can make life feel overly delayed and joyless.

If you’re unsure which type of happiness you need, check in with yourself. Are you depriving yourself of life’s pleasures, or do you need to cultivate more meaning and purpose?

For hedonic happiness, consider incorporating pleasurable activities like great food, entertainment, relaxation, or social interactions. Surround yourself with things that spark joy, and give yourself permission to enjoy life’s sensory delights.

For eudaimonic happiness, focus on living authentically, pursuing meaningful goals, and cultivating deep relationships. Align your strengths with purposeful activities, and engage in acts of kindness and gratitude.

The key is balance. If you’re feeling stuck or unsure, don’t hesitate to reach out to me. You can DM me on Instagram (@CSkolnicki) or reply to one of our podcast update emails. I’d love to hear from you.

Take some time this week to reflect on which type of happiness you need to cultivate and take one step in that direction. Don’t forget to check out the Canyon Ranch retreat. If you decide to attend, let me know—you can find all the details in the show notes.

Until next time, let’s be brilliant.