The colours of my room | Nourhan Sabah Chemandi | TEDxUniversity of Birmingham Dubai

Core Argument - The prevailing definitions of happiness, particularly those presented in psychology frameworks, often lack individual context and can lead to a pursuit of happiness based on external validation rather than self-discovery [2][3][6][9] - True happiness and vitality stem from self-acceptance, understanding one's unique environment, and being present in the moment, rather than adhering to externally imposed goals or standards [6][13][14] - Social media can exacerbate the issue by promoting idealized versions of happiness, leading individuals to adopt lifestyles that do not align with their true selves [7][8] Psychological Framework Critique - Existing psychological frameworks for happiness, such as those emphasizing autonomy and goal setting, fail to adequately address the importance of individual identity and self-awareness [3][6][9] - The frameworks often present happiness as a checklist of concepts without considering the unique experiences and environments of individuals [2][3][5] - Self-acceptance, as defined in these frameworks, can be misinterpreted as an abstract, superficial concept rather than a genuine understanding of oneself [12] Path to Authentic Happiness - The journey to authentic happiness involves introspection, self-reflection, and a willingness to confront one's true self, even if it is initially painful [9][10][11] - Presence, or being fully engaged in the current moment, is crucial for building a fulfilling life and discovering one's own vitality [13][14] - Individuals should focus on writing their own stories and discovering what vitality looks like for them, rather than searching for happiness in someone else's story [14]