“What is happiness at its core? Often, happiness is imagined as something that needs to be constantly pursued from some future point, more and more.
The mindset of “I will be happy when…” is probably familiar to you as well. But is happiness somehow “complete” or full when that new thing is achieved? It doesn’t seem to be. The feeling of contentment related to achievements or material things is not permanent.
Happiness is an attitude that signifies a positive and optimistic approach to life. Period.
It’s a way of looking at the world and the skill of living a meaningful life – regardless of circumstances – that makes life enjoyable and, especially, meaningful.
I’m not saying that you should settle for a bad life situation, like a bad job, spouse, home, or anything else, and just convince yourself to be happy – that’s not the point! For a genuinely bad situation, you should always do something more than just examine your attitude.
Happiness is a choice that you can make every day.
Happiness is an internal state that you can create for yourself through your mindset and lifestyle. Finding happiness requires effort because it doesn’t stay with you with a momentary effort. I believe that when you realize this, life can become a bit easier – understanding that happiness is always there, as long as you know how to “bring it out” from hiding.
I myself have started to learn the skill of finding happiness over and over again, even daily. When feelings of exhaustion, tiredness, or frustration surface in everyday life, I try to pause and remind myself of where I am and what I have. I ask myself, for example, “Where would you rather be than where you are now?” – the answer is clear, nowhere else than surrounded by my own family right where I am. I also remind myself that everything is okay right now. This way, I can let go of worrying about the future, as it’s not here yet!
Where to find happiness?
To find happiness in your life, you first need to think about what makes you happy and what doesn’t. After that, you can start making changes to your lifestyle and mindset. You can, for example, start practicing gratitude, find meaningful work or hobbies that bring you joy and happiness, meet more friends and family who bring you joy, or start practicing mental well-being and healthy lifestyles.
10 reasons to be happy right now!
- You have health. Health is the most important thing in life, and with it, everything else becomes easier.
- You have family and friends who support and care for you.
- You have meaningful work or a hobby that brings you joy and happiness.
- You have a home that is a safe and comfortable place to live.
- You have the opportunity to learn new things and develop personally.
- You have the freedom to choose the course of your own life and make choices that are important to you.
- You have the opportunity to travel and see new places and experience new things.
- You have a sense of purpose and meaning in life.
- You have the opportunity to do good for others and help other people.
- You have a life that includes moments of joy and happiness.
If any of the above doesn’t apply to you, what could you do about it? Could you take small steps forward?
Finding happiness takes time and effort, but it’s worth it. Remember that achievements and material things add joy and a good feeling and make life easier, but they don’t create lasting happiness or meaning in life.”
