Are You Happy Now?

Happiness, that elusive yet cherished state of being, has been a subject of human fascination for centuries. We often search for it in external circumstances, believing that acquiring possessions, achieving success, or experiencing momentary pleasures will make us happy. However, the premise we explore here challenges this conventional wisdom: Nothing can make you happy. Instead, true happiness is a journey of self-discovery and self-application. It resides within us, waiting to be uncovered and applied to our lives.

The Myth of External Happiness

From an early age, society teaches us to pursue external sources of happiness. We are bombarded with messages that suggest owning a big house, a luxurious car, or the latest gadgets will bring us joy. While these external achievements can provide temporary satisfaction, they often leave us wanting more, trapped in an endless cycle of desire and consumption.

Moreover, relying on external factors for happiness puts us at the mercy of circumstances beyond our control. Relationships may end, fortunes may fade, and possessions may lose their appeal. If our happiness solely depends on these external factors, we become vulnerable to inevitable changes and disappointments.

So, if external factors can't guarantee lasting happiness, where do we find it? The answer lies within ourselves. True happiness is not a destination; it's a journey of self-discovery and self-application. Here are some key aspects of finding happiness internally:

1. Self-Acceptance: The path to happiness begins with accepting yourself as you are, with all your imperfections and flaws. Embrace your uniqueness and recognize that you are enough just as you are.
2. Mindfulness: Practicing mindfulness involves being present in the moment, without judgment or attachment to the past or future. It allows you to appreciate the beauty and richness of life as it unfolds.
3. Gratitude: Cultivating an attitude of gratitude can shift your focus from what you lack to what you have. Regularly acknowledging the blessings in your life can bring immense happiness.
4. Purpose and Meaning: Finding a sense of purpose and meaning in your life can provide a profound sense of fulfillment. It's about aligning your actions with your values and making a positive impact on the world.
5. Relationships: Building and nurturing meaningful relationships with family, friends, and loved ones can be a significant source of happiness. Sharing experiences, offering support, and connecting on a deeper level can bring immense joy.
6. Self-Compassion: Treat yourself with the same kindness and understanding that you would offer to a close friend. Be gentle with yourself during difficult times, and don't be too hard on yourself.

Applying Internal Happiness to Your Life

Once you've found happiness within, the next step is to apply it to your life. This involves making conscious choices that align with your inner sense of joy and contentment. Here are some ways to integrate internal happiness into your daily life:

1. Pursue Passion: Engage in activities and pursuits that bring you genuine joy and fulfillment. When you're passionate about what you do, happiness becomes a natural byproduct.
2. Prioritize Well-Being: Take care of your physical and mental health. Regular exercise, a balanced diet, and mindfulness practices can enhance your overall well-being and happiness.
3. Give Back: Contributing to the well-being of others through acts of kindness, volunteering, or simply being there for someone can create a profound sense of happiness.
4. Let Go of Control: Understand that not everything is within your control. Accept uncertainty and be adaptable in the face of life's challenges.
5. Practice Resilience: Develop the ability to bounce back from setbacks and adversity. Resilience is a key factor in maintaining happiness during tough times.

In the pursuit of happiness, it's important to recognize that nothing external can make you truly happy. Lasting happiness is an internal journey, a state of being that you cultivate within yourself and apply to your life. By embracing self-acceptance, practicing mindfulness, and living with purpose, you can unlock the wellspring of happiness that resides within you. So, let go of the myth of external happiness and embark on the fulfilling journey of discovering and nurturing the happiness that is uniquely yours.

P.S. - For those of you that say "money can buy happiness." A study published in the journal "Nature Human Behaviour" found that money can indeed buy happiness, but only up to a certain income level. Beyond that threshold, additional income has diminishing returns on happiness.

Reference: Andrew T. Jebb, Louis Tay, Ed Diener, Shigehiro Oishi.?Happiness, income satiation and turning points around the world.?Nature Human Behaviour, 2018; 2 (1): 33. DOI:?10.1038/s41562-017-0277-0