The Happiness in a Strict Choice

Our ability to dream fantastic, alternate scenarios helps guide us in our actions.  For example, I've spent long hours daydreaming about the ideally running classroom and have made changes in my practices in order to make my dream a reality.  However, day dreams often lead us to forks in the road.  Which path should you take?

I watched a TED talk by Dan Gilbert on his research of this phenomenon.  First, he explained how we evolved this ability of simulating experiences (interesting side note: this simulation occurs in our prefrontal cortex, which is one of the newly evolved structures of our brain).  Then, the impact bias was discussed, which explains how we misjudge what will make us happy.  The most fascinating piece was how having a choice to change a circumstance dramatically lowers peoples' judgment of happiness.  For example, if you have the choice to return a painting you chose, then you will judge it negatively.  However, if you do not have a choice to return a painting you chose, then you will judge it positively.  This is an example of the fork in the road I mentioned above.  While you are trying to choose a painting, your brain is playing two scenarios; one scenario of you owning picture 1, another of you owning picture 2.  The research shows that if you have the knowledge of a chance to choose the other, then you will think the other choice would have made you happier.

About three months ago I wrote the following piece about dreaming and the impact it has on our emotions/moods.

The purpose of dreaming is to help us see the path we want to take.  But, a problem develops once we start believing we are living the dream, for dreams are flawless.  They are perfect.  Yet, life is never perfect.  Once we begin to compare our life to our dream as if they are equal, that is when we get depressed 

I like when I find my conclusions have scientific support.  But, what can we learn from this information?

Dream only to compare the possibilities of a choice you have yet to make.  Once that choice is made, do not dream of the alternative(s), for it evidently will cause the feelings of sadness, greed, and/or insecurity.  Make the logical choice at the time and dream only of the future choices it leads you to.  Make a strict choice for maximum happiness.