101 Stories for Enhancing Happiness and Well-Being

George W. Burns is a clinical psychologist, adjunct professor of psychology at the Cairnmillar Institute of Psychotherapy and Counseling, and director of the Milton H. Erickson Institute of Western Australia. He conducts workshops worldwide, has authored 8 books, and volunteers as a psychologist in developing countries such as Bhutan.

"This book is a treasure trove of creative metaphors. Burns’s stories are elegantly crafted, beautifully told, and grounded in the new science of positive psychology. It should be read by all psychotherapists and counselors who wish to use positive psychology to help their clients."Alan Carr, PhD, professor of clinical psychology, University College Dublin, Ireland"Full of stories that inspire, amuse and challenge, this book brings alive the lessons of positive psychology. A great addition to any therapist's bookshelf and for anyone seeking a bit of wisdom to help them in their day to day struggles."Stephen Joseph, PhD, author of Authentic: How to be Yourself and Why it Matters "George Burns is the ‘metaphor man.’ In 101 Stories for Enhancing Happiness and Well-Being, he shows how therapists can use his vast collection of rich teaching stories to influence and transform people’s lives. He provides a clever link between CBT, mindfulness, metaphors and positive psychology to create satisfying relationships and happy lives. This is a necessary volume for advanced clinicians."Jon Carlson, PsyD, EdD, ABPP, Distinguished Professor, Adler University"George Burns shares wonderful stories that reveal his kindness and warmth while also providing engaging glimpses of true wisdom. Particularly impressive is how Burns promotes core values of decency and optimism while promoting insight and growth. Every reader will be a better therapist—and a better person—by absorbing the profound messages in this superb book."Michael D. Yapko, PhD, clinical psychologist and author of The Discriminating Therapist and Essentials of Hypnosis"In an engaging and lively style, George Burns takes the reader through a fascinating journey across different facets of the psychotherapeutic communication. This book shows readers how to collaborate with clients to build therapeutic strategies through use of metaphors and stories. Theoretically grounded in positive psychology, the approach focuses on the promotion of hope, mindfulness, personal strengths, and acceptance."Antonella Delle Fave, MD, professor of psychology, University of Milan, Italy"Deploying the knowledge that stories can heal and enhance our lives, master storyteller and psychotherapist George Burns offers readers a wealth of inspiring stories covering specific facets of ourselves including empowerment, work and relationships. I warmly recommend this delightfully accessible book to anyone wishing to lead a happier and more fulfilled life."Felicia Huppert, PhD, emeritus professor of psychology, University of Cambridge, United Kingdom

• Acknowledgements Introduction 1. On Being a Goal-setter and Goal-achiever 2. On Finding and Using Strengths 3. On Being Powered 4. On Being Accepting 5. On Being Mindful 6. On Being a Reframer 7. On Changing Patterns of Behavior 8. On Learning from Experience 9. On Being Compassionate 10. On Being a Self-carer 11. On Being a Positive Thinker 12. On Being Emotionally Positive and Engaged 13. On Being in Social Relationships 14. On Improving Loving Relationships 15. On Finding Meaning and Wisdom 16. On Being a Problem-solver 17. On Being Happy A Guide to Creating Your Own Happiness-Enhancing Stories References and Reading Resources Index