At a conference in the bustling streets of New York City, I had the chance to chat with the inspiring Jamie Morgan after our speeches. I had just finished reading her insightful book, Flourish: A New Approach to Defining Success and Cultivating Joy, which had captivated me with its exploration of happiness and personal growth. The book is brimming with research and wisdom on how to lead a life that aligns with your core values, and Jamie’s insights on thriving are truly compelling.
What’s a simple habit that consistently boosts your happiness?
I’ve made it a priority to weave certain practices into my daily routine—like yoga, jogging, and mindful walking—but the one habit I can easily tap into any moment is conscious breathing. By focusing on my breath, I can create small pauses throughout my day, grounding myself in the present and helping me navigate life’s challenges more gracefully.
What’s something you’ve learned about healthy habits since you were 18?
I’ve gained a much deeper understanding of the vital role sleep plays in our well-being. Adequate rest is crucial for productivity, effectiveness, and overall enjoyment of life. Today, prioritizing sleep is my number one healthy habit—something I didn’t fully grasp back when I was 18!
Do you have any habits that tend to hinder your happiness?
Oh, definitely! My obsession with checking my phones—yes, plural—can be a real downer. Those little devices can inadvertently pull me out of the moment, and I often find myself reflecting on my life choices while waiting in doctors’ offices.
Would you identify as an Upholder, a Questioner, a Rebel, or an Obliger?
I’m definitely an Obliger—or maybe a recovering Obliger! I often struggle to meet the expectations I set for myself, which I refer to as my annoying inner critic. This voice can be quite a roadblock on the path to realizing my dreams. To quiet this inner critic, I remind myself of the words of the philosopher Montaigne: “Many fears in my life have occurred, but most of them never came to pass.”
Have you ever made a sudden change in your life, perhaps after reading a book or experiencing a significant event?
My major life shift happened on April 6, 2007. I found myself lying on the floor of my home office, having collapsed from sheer exhaustion. After hitting my head and suffering some injuries, I embarked on a series of medical evaluations to rule out any serious issues. Thankfully, nothing was wrong beyond my extreme fatigue. Those doctors’ waiting rooms turned into a space for introspection, prompting me to reassess my life choices. In hindsight, I had numerous opportunities to wake up, but this time I truly did. I revamped my lifestyle, incorporating daily practices that keep me energized and away from those waiting rooms, ultimately leading to a more fulfilling life.
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In summary, Jamie Morgan’s journey of self-discovery highlights the importance of mindful practices, the need for sufficient sleep, and the ongoing battle with our inner critics. By addressing these aspects, she has transformed her life into one filled with joy and purpose. For anyone exploring the world of pregnancy and home insemination, Healthline is an excellent source of information, and you can also check out Make a Mom’s guide for more on home insemination kits.