How to Hack Happiness: 5 Perspectives for the Conscious Achiever

Have you noticed my recent Linkedin silence?

I've been on a much-needed holiday, disconnected from emails, LinkedIn, and notifications. Just me, my family, and the breathtaking scenery of the Greek islands.

As I sat on a serene beach, I had a profound realization: I was doing nothing, yet soaking in beauty, calmness, and a sense of presence. This nothingness brought a deep sense of happiness—there was nothing more to add.

For years, like many of you, I chased happiness as if it were a finish line. I thought if I just worked harder, achieved more, or ticked off the right boxes, I'd finally feel that elusive joy.

This revelation wasn't just personal; it made me reflect on the challenges many of my high-achieving clients face. They often confide, "I keep waiting to feel that surge of happiness I thought success would bring. Why does it feel so... empty?"

Today, I'm excited to share 5 fresh perspectives on happiness that could revolutionize your approach to work and life. These insights have transformed my outlook and those of my clients.

Let's dive in:

1. Growth is Key to Happiness

Have you ever noticed how accomplishing a challenging task gives you a rush of satisfaction? That's because growth is fundamental to our happiness. As Gretchen Rubin wisely points out, "To feel happy, we need to feel growth—a sense of learning, of betterment, of advancement, of mastery."

Client Example: I coached a marketing director who felt stuck in her role. By taking on a challenging AI implementation project, she reignited her passion through learning and growth.

Action Item: Identify one area in your life where you can push yourself to grow this week. It could be learning a new skill, taking on a challenging project, or starting a new hobby.

2. Happiness Doesn't Always Feel Happy

Here's a surprising truth: "Happiness doesn't always make us feel happy." Sometimes, the actions that lead to long-term happiness and satisfaction require short-term discomfort or sacrifice.

Client Example: A client transitioning from a comfortable corporate job to entrepreneurship faced months of uncertainty and challenges. However, the alignment with his purpose ultimately brought profound fulfillment.

Action Item: Reflect on a goal that's important to you but you've been avoiding due to short-term discomfort. Take one small step towards that goal this week.

3. Inside-Out vs. Outside-In Happiness

Many of us fall into the trap of "Outside-In" happiness, believing that external achievements or possessions will make us happy. But true, lasting happiness comes from the inside.

Client Example: Mark, a successful executive, realized he had been chasing "Outside-In" happiness. By focusing on self-awareness and aligning his actions with his values, he transformed both his personal satisfaction and leadership style.

Action Item: Write down three things about yourself (not your achievements) that you're proud of. Remind yourself of these internal qualities regularly.

4. The Saboteur vs. Sage Battle

One of the most powerful shifts in finding lasting happiness comes from how we define ourselves. Let's explore two mindsets at play: the saboteur and the sage.

The Saboteur Mindset

The saboteur is that nagging inner voice that often holds us back. It defines us through our conditions and circumstances, and tend to protect us -often negatively. Common saboteur scripts include:

• "You're not good enough until you get that promotion."
• "You can't relax until everything on your to-do list is done."
• "You're only as good as your last success."

The Sage Mindset

The sage is our true, wise self. It understands that:

• You are worthy, regardless of your achievements or failures.
• Growth and learning are more valuable than perfection.
• Your values define you more than your circumstances.

Client Example: Lisa, a senior manager hijacked by imposter syndrome, learned to intercept saboteur thoughts and shift to a sage perspective. This practice improved her confidence and overall happiness at work.

Action Item: Keep a "Saboteur vs. Sage" journal this week. When you notice a saboteur thought, write it down, then write a sage response.

Want Some powerful tools that help with Saboteur-Sage Shift? Comment below with #shifttools

5. Everyday Luxuries and Sensory Happiness

Happiness often lies in small, everyday luxuries that engage our senses. For me, it's the scent of a candle, the texture of a new journal, my children's laughter, or the taste of an acai bowl.

Action Item: List five "everyday luxuries" that bring you joy, or 5 things you appreciate. Incorporate at least one into each day this week.

What's your perspective on happiness? I'd love to hear your thoughts and experiences in the comments below!

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Who's?Ghada Khalifeh? ?I am a Certified Professional Coach, Trainer, Entrepreneur, Human Consciousness advocate, and Podcaster. I partner with ambitious individuals, anxious leaders, and busy entrepreneurs who are ready to redefine success and happiness in a fast-paced environment and learn how to lead a more fulfilling life and impactful career with flow and joy. Let's connect!