The happiness habit: Building joy into busy lives
October 10, 2025
SPJIMR marked World Mental Health Day with a special session facilitated by in-house counsellor Dimple Wagle. The session centred on fostering emotional well-being through engaging discussions and interactive activities focused on self-care and happiness.
Ms. Wagle introduced participants to the PERMA Model—a framework comprising positive emotions, engagement, relationships, meaning, and accomplishments—which helps cultivate lasting happiness. Participants explored how each element contributes to overall well-being and discussed practical ways to integrate these principles into their demanding schedules as management students and future leaders.
A self-reflection exercise using the PROST Questionnaire encouraged participants to assess their current emotional state and identify areas for growth. In a creative activity, participants decorated envelopes to express their personal understanding of happiness, resulting in diverse and meaningful artistic expressions that reflected SPJIMR’s vibrant community spirit.
Throughout the session, participants examined emotional themes and identified factors that promote happiness as well as barriers that inhibit it in their busy lives. The interactive format encouraged open sharing and created a supportive environment for honest reflection, reinforcing SPJIMR’s commitment to holistic development and social sensitivity.
As part of the awareness activities, students also wrote positive thoughts and notes for classmates and staff, fostering a culture of appreciation and support. Colourful ‘Gems’ were distributed as symbolic reminders that “we all have gems inside us” waiting to be discovered and nurtured.
Participants shared heartfelt reflections:
- “Through the session, I realised that happiness isn’t a milestone — it’s in the moments we choose to slow down, reflect, and take care of ourselves.” — Sneha Thevar.
- “I learnt that happiness truly begins with self-awareness — understanding what brings us joy and taking small steps to nurture it every day.” — Rachel Jacob.
The session served as a reminder that happiness is not a destination but a habit that can be consciously built into daily life. Participants left with practical tools and renewed commitment to prioritising their mental health — ready to promote value-based growth in their personal and professional lives. Through such initiatives, SPJIMR continues to nurture leaders who champion holistic well-being alongside professional excellence.