A Unified Theory of Happiness: An East-Meets-West Approach to Fully Loving Your Life
In this comprehensive and well-written guide to a life of happiness, Polard, a clinical psychologist, proposes a blending of Western and Eastern philosophies by focusing on balancing "the two modes of consciousness:" Basic Mode, wherein one "actively relate[s] to the so-called objective world;" and Supreme Mode, wherein one "focus[es] on Being." After explaining the two modes, Polard provides a useful questionnaire to help readers determine which chapters would be most relevant to their unique circumstances. The rest of the book is divided into distinct discussions of the two modes, with chapters dedicated to aspects of each. Under the auspices of the Basic Mode, Polard discusses ambition, competence, connection, and confidence, and provides practical exercises, such as drafting a "personal competency chart" and even watching movies like Billy Elliot or Dead Poets Society. For the Supreme Mode, Polard discourses on receptivity, tranquility, reliance, and lightheartedness; for the latter she suggests being a little silly, even if it feels uncomfortable--sing in a karaoke contest, or play on the floor with the dogs. Though she introduces the modes separately, she maintains that a synthesis of the two is ideal, and negative experiences will always be a part of the equation. By balancing new-age spirituality with relevant research and useful tips, Polard's approach will appeal to a wide range of readers.- Publishers Weekly (May 2012)Andrea Polard is a German-born author and clinical psychologist with an extensive background in psychodynamic therapies, meditation, and Erickson mind-body work. Now practicing what she calls "Zen Psychology" in the Los Angeles area, she continues her mission to reduce suffering and promote happiness for individuals wherever they may be.A Unified Theory of Happinesscharts Polard's 20-year study of the vibrancy and meaning that comes to those who combine the active Western "Basic Mode" of consciousness with the non-active Eastern "Supreme Mode" of consciousness. Or as the author puts it in more simplistic terms:"The active way makes us get our hands dirty, plant the seeds, harvest the fruit, and share it with friends and family. The nonactive way is seeing the interplay of hands and dirt, plants and seeds, sun and fruit, friends and family. Neither way is enough by itself."Happiness stems from blending of the active and non-active modes of consciousness. Polard discusses the four tools of the Basic Mode: ambition, competence, connection, and confidence. There are helpful exercises following each of these tools which contain something to think about, exploring your feelings, and things you can do (movies, books, and practices).This section of the book leads naturally to a consideration of the qualities which enhance and sustain "The Supreme Mode" of consciousness: receptivity, tranquility, reliance, and lightheartedness. All of these combine to a realization of "no self" and our natural immersion in the flow of life.Psychologist Polard has fashioned a compelling map of the good things which can grow out of a synthesis of Western science and Eastern wisdom.-By Frederic and Mary Ann BrussatSpirituality & Practice, July 2012