Heightening Your Happiness: How You Can Develop the Skill of Enjoying Your Life

This book has given me a new outlook on life, and I am happier than ever before as a result. If you are looking to find your truth, make sense of your life, and boost your level of happiness, then start here!

Nicole Gabriel, Author of Finding Your Inner Truth

and Stepping into Your Becoming, Maui, Hawaii

This is one of those rare books that is truly life-changing. Since reading it, my level of happiness has increased significantly because it has reminded me of life’s greatest discovery—your happiness is in your own hands and you have the ability to choose happiness instead of seeking it from outside sources.

Patrick Snow, Publishing Coaching and International

Best-Selling Author of Creating Your Own Destiny

and Boy Entrepreneur, Maui, Hawaii

"Karen Degen is definitely an expert on the subject matter of happiness! If you want to find the joy in life, Heightening Your Happiness is the key. I recommend Heightening Your Happiness to anyone who wants to have greater success in every area of life while increasing his or her happiness along the way."

Brett Dupree, Author of Joyous Expansion:

Unleashing Your Passions to Lead an Inspired Life,

Seattle, Washington

"I have known Karen for several years as both a coach and mentor. What I found in the book was exactly what I have found with Karen, a lovely mix of process, her ideas, science, other people’s ideas, and actual case studies to see it all in action. This multi-layered approach gives readers the chance to try for themselves, learn from others, observe process in action, review, and work out how the concepts can be moved from the pages of the book to their lives. Heightening Your Happiness contains simple and very effective tools to use and absorb into daily practice, all backed up with science and know how. It’s a recipe book to create something special for us all—our happiness."

Richard Blakeborough, Transformational Coach,

Christchurch, New Zealand

"Heightening Your Happiness has phenomenal tools that you can immediately implement to feel a difference in your life. Karen is able to take complex ideas and deliver them to you in a simple manner. Enjoy the book. You deserve to be happy."

Autumn Shields, Author of Living Your Life Alive,

Maui, Hawaii

"Heightening Your Happiness should be kept within easy reach and referred to often. Karen Degen insightfully beckons the reader to participate in what she has found works. Highly practical tips are brought to life with relevant examples from her work with clients and her own personal experience. Karen skillfully hands you tool after tool, teaching you step-by-step how to succeed in your own happiness-self-improvement project. Like a letter to a friend, her care and sincere desire to help shines through in page after page, drawing the reader along on the journey to greater happiness. These tools are simple, yet profound. You may wonder, ‘Why didn’t I think of that?’ You may also find yourself, saying, ‘Oh, I do that. I must keep that up!’ Even if you consider yourself to be a basically happy person, this book is well worth a read. And no matter where you are on your journey to inner happiness, as you add these tools to your happiness toolbox, don’t be surprised if you find yourself recommending a tool or two to others you care about, if not the entire book!"

Ana Peterson,

Christchurch, New Zealand

Wow! Karen has written an amazing book. The quest most people have in life is to ‘be happy.’ Karen thoroughly explains the concept of happiness in a way that offers us some major awarenesses, shares incredible tools and techniques to help clear emotions that are blocking our ability to be at a frequency of happiness, and shares language we tend to use that keeps us in a state of unhappiness. By employing her coaching skills and use of Emotional Freedom Techniques, not only has Karen written a powerful book, but she has also provided fabulous support to people who are suffering. The idea of happiness may sound cliché, but Karen breaks it down in a way that has us understand the deep and detailed pieces that allow us to put it all together to feel lighter and filled with joy.

Susan Ortolano, MA, PCC, Intuitive Relationship Coach and

Author of Remarrying Right, Los Angeles, California

When it comes to happiness, Karen Degen provides a toolbox with all the tools you need to heighten happiness in your life. Happy people simplify their lives—begin by simplifying yours with the tools provided in each chapter.

Karen Putz, Author of Gliding Soles, The Parenting Journey,

and In Pursuit of Passion, Chicago, Illinois

Karen’s book on happiness is refreshing and stimulating. She breaks happiness into palatable chunks that can be achieved by anyone. Her tool kit is overflowing with ideas that can be easily implemented and revised again and again as the need arises, until they become second nature. I have no doubt that this book will help many people step into a stronger feeling of happiness, one that can be maintained throughout their lives and role modelled to their families and friends. Like a ripple in a pond, happiness spreads through families and communities. Reading this book has reminded me to be kinder to myself and stand in gratitude for all that I am. Everything that you need to be really happy is already here.

Dr Robyn Mills (PhD), Psychologist,

Melbourne, Australia

This is a great book full of very practical suggestions, lively convincing stories, and simple, common sense and workable things people can do to ‘heighten their happiness’ levels.

Patricia Anne Dye, Author of The Seven Sages

and Chronicles of the World Tree,

Christchurch, New Zealand

What I loved about this book are Karen’s thorough explanations and client examples about how to come to your own awareness of your personal journey to happiness. Understanding our thoughts and beliefs creates a pathway for anyone seeking more joy and connectedness within their lives. Looking at valuable aspects of ourselves, and behaviours, Karen shows a new sense of self, allowing a higher self-esteem to master life.

Mary-Anne Frank, Author of

The Cinderella Evolution,

Melbourne, Australia

Karen has brilliantly re-thought the idea of happiness and how to experience it lifelong. I found it a great insight to read that happiness is a learned skill. I loved the set of techniques, or ‘happiness tools,’ which were demonstrated through lots of relevant personal stories: so I can now put these tools into practice as well. It was good to read that some of my errant unhelpful early childhood programming can be readjusted by these happiness tools. I found this to be a truly amazing, life-changing book. I encourage everyone to put these concepts into everyday action. Yes, a game-changer.

Professor Rodney Ford, Paediatrician,

Christchurch, New Zealand

"Heightening Your Happiness will change your life. You will learn easy-to-implement tools and techniques to be happier and more joyous. If you are looking to transform yourself from ‘ho hum’ to happiness, then undertake the exercises in Karen Degen’s book and you will have a positive attitude and a smile on your face in no time at all."

Jacqueline Bignell, CEO The Difference Global,

Executive Producer of The Difference Film,

Melbourne, Australia

This book of Karen Degen’s is for anyone who wants to increase peace, love, health, and happiness in his or her life. It was a real gift to read the book and identify attributes of myself that have bugged me for years and, just a few paragraphs later, discover a process to transform those attributes into strengths and instantly feel peace!

Alice Wheaton, Best-Selling Author of

Say NO to Me! and Imperfect Forgiveness,

Calgary, Canada

"Trust yourself; if you have this book in your hands, it is time to read it. And you will more than once! Karen is so generous for sharing the skills in this book; it’s written to be self-help, which is priceless. The information will never grow old, so you can call on it whenever you need it. The value is immense—life-changing.

"For me, nothing changed and everything changed. I did not win the lottery, start a new job, or move house. I had a good life before, but I wasn’t happy. My first visit to Karen was because I didn’t have the energy to enjoy anything. Life had become a battle, and I was tired, like never before. It’s only been a short while, but everything is better: my relationships, my business, and me. It’s difficult to describe how much change can happen under the surface; for me it’s a buzz, now almost needing to keep my energy in check! It’s just so much better.

I have already recommended Karen to friends, and I hope to make sure many more people I know get this book! Thank you, Karen, for my increased happiness.

Jo Rogers,

Christchurch, New Zealand

Karen Degen changed my life in one second. Her advice, hastily given in a busy public place, completely changed things for me. I realised I was responsible for my own happiness and that it was a choice. If my life can change in one second from one piece of advice, imagine how yours can change from reading this book.

Kelly Stephens,

Christchurch, New Zealand

I came to see Karen after suffering from depression for a number of years. EFT and the advice Karen gave me have helped me turn my life around. I am now in a place where I am happy and the future is something to look forward to, not dread. Thanks so much, Karen; you and EFT have made such a big difference in my life.

Jenny Wilson,

Wellington, New Zealand

I can’t believe how amazing I feel after just one session; I felt like I was really at a loss before I came and saw you. I am so much happier and actually enjoying everyday things without worry. Thank you so much; it’s the greatest gift I have ever been given.

Helen McGinty,

Christchurch, New Zealand

I have spent the last eight years of my life trying to get to a place where I can say I am truly a happy being. I have read countless books and tried tapping (EFT) myself with very limited success until now. I set a very high standard in my chosen profession, and I expect the same when I pay for the services of others. With Karen, the results I have gotten and continue to see every visit have gone beyond what I thought I could ever achieve. Her advice and expertise are priceless, and the impact it has had on my life is nothing short of amazing. Although there is still work to be done, I am working towards my goals as a new and inspired person thanks to her help and guidance.

Geoff Beyer,

Napier, New Zealand

I went to Karen to seek help for the vague feelings of stagnation and inertia. To seek answers to the questions: Why am I not moving forward? What’s wrong with me? Why am I stuck in what appears to be Groundhog Day with only transient joy in my life? I felt like I was always on the verge...the verge of what, I didn’t quite know—happiness? success? I was waiting for life to happen to me. Since working with Karen, good things just happen for me and they happen effortlessly. Before Karen and EFT, I was stuck in a holding pattern of self-doubt and negative self-talk. I was my own handbrake. Now, I am much more confident and am quickly realising my potential.

Sarah Morgan,

Ashburton, New Zealand

"Heightening your Happiness is one of the best self-help books I have read in a while! Karen Degen has taken an ‘old age problem’—one of finding happiness—and taken it to a new level. Firstly, in discussing Happiness; then in providing readers with user-friendly tools to use and apply within their own lives. Karen has opened up opportunities for growth and…the attainment of happiness for everyone! A must-read for those seeking to further their heights of happiness!"

Ruth Anne Caukwell, Author of Musings of a Blogger:

Inspirational Thoughts for Your Life’s Journey,

Christchurch, New Zealand

"Need some tools to get you on the happiness highway? This book ticks all the boxes—Karen’s years of experience shine through in easy-to-follow, bite-size pieces of practical information culminating in the wonderful world of EFT! Read Heightening Your Happiness; you won’t look back!"

Pam Coles,

Perth, Australia

A sparkle of humour, mixed with proven theory and her understanding of how the mind, body, and spirit works—Karen Degen has put these powerful tools together to provide a positive self-help book to change old patterns, emotions, and conditioning; to free the mind and set it on the road to happiness.

Susan Lowe,

Christchurch, New Zealand

"Heightening Your Happiness is a much-needed book for everyone. We all need to do what makes us happy and not just what others tell us will. As Karen says in my favourite line in the book, ‘Feel the guilt and do it anyway.’ So be happy anyway. Karen Degen will show you how."

Tyler R. Tichelaar, PhD and award-winning

author of The Children of Arthur series,

Michigan, USA

"Wow! Simple, specific, and superb. Karen’s book is all of these. I have never had Karen as a therapist, but I feel lucky to have received the benefit of her expertise via this book. Often reading self-help books I’ve been overwhelmed—so much to do, so little time. Karen’s book reverses this trend.

"From the start it was as though Karen was having a conversation with me. I felt comfortable as she led me on a journey to help me unlock the essential keys to finding a happier life. Great pace, never overload, great case studies and simple easy-to-work-on exercises to improving happiness.

The tools she provides, the basis for their effectiveness, and how to implement them are clear and persuasive. Hers is not a one-minute fix, but an incremental approach to finding greater happiness. She emphasises the need to work on each aspect before moving to the next. I found her ‘no nonsense’ explanation of the workings of Emotional Freedom Techniques, and how we can apply them, compelling. I have no hesitation in recommending Karen’s book—I am now a fan.

David Clarkson, Author of Dare to Deliver,

the Dynamic Guide to Public Speaking

I thoroughly enjoyed readying Karen’s down-to-earth approach to how you can be happy. The practical tools she shares I know to be true and I totally endorse that they work. Her style of writing is from the heart, and I really enjoyed her stories of real people, which affirm her counsel. A wonderful book for anyone who wishes to change their life for the better.

Chryssie Russell, Author of Shop like a Style Expert,

and co-author of Successful Women

"As I strive to live in the present moment with joy, I am always reminding myself of the many tools Karen shared in her amazing and insightful book Heightening Your Happiness. The tools Karen gives us all are very simple and straightforward and can open previously locked doors with ease. I can no longer deny that happiness is ready and waiting for me, and I now am ready to face any resistance with love and EFT. Thanks for making happiness so achievable for all who are interested and willing."

Anita Woodham,

Christchurch, New Zealand

Copyright © 2015

Published by:

Aviva Publishing

Lake Placid, NY

(518) 523-1320

www.AvivaPubs.com

All rights reserved. No part of this book may be used or reproduced in any manner whatsoever without the expressed written permission of the author. Address all enquiries to:

Karen Degen

Telephone: 0064 3 3320526

Email: karen@setfree.co.nz

www.setfree.co.nz

ISBN: 978-1-943164-33-2

Library of Congress Control Number: 2015912504

Editor: Tyler Tichelaar

Cover Designer: Nicole Gabriel

Cover image by: Brent Ruru

Interior Book Layout: Nicole Gabriel

Author Photo: Charlotte Cook Photography

Printed in New Zealand

First Edition

To my husband, Theo: You enable me to be the person I am because you support me to achieve what I want to achieve in my life. You are the most supportive person I know, and I love that I can pursue my dreams and goals because you work behind the scenes to allow me to do this. Because of your support, you have allowed me to grow and develop, and I am a better person and a happier person because of it. I would not be the person I am today without you. You are the wind beneath my wings.

I once asked Peter Raos, a famous glass artist, how long it took him to make one of his beautiful vases. He replied, Over twenty years. I knew what he meant because the knowledge and skills I have acquired that enabled me to write this book have been gathered over many years and not just the time it took to write it. I would like to acknowledge, therefore, the people who have contributed in some way to making me who I am, even though they might not realise it or even know me.

Gary Craig, Esther Hicks and Abraham, Byron Katie, Dr Bruce Lipton, William Walmsley, Neale Donald Walsch

Thank you also to:

David Clarkson, Theo Degen, Patricia Dye, Susan Friedmann, Nicole Gabriel, Joy Gargiulo, Elly McGuinness, Robyn Mills, National Speakers, Association of New Zealand, Nanny van den Oever, Ana Peterson, Brent Ruru, Chryssie Russell, Patrick Snow, Tyler Tichelaar

Thank you also to everyone who has hired me as his or her therapist or coach and enabled me to do this job that I love so much. The job of changing lives.

There is no medical advice in this book. It is all opinion. You are responsible for your own health care decisions. You are responsible for the use of these materials and information. Any decisions or changes you make are your choice and not the responsibility of the author. If you are suicidal or feel you could be of danger to yourself or others, please seek immediate assistance from a trained professional.

Although the author and publisher have made every effort to