Everyone wants to be happy, but achieving it is a lot easier said than done.
That’s because many of us think about what truly makes for a joyous life in the wrong way. Those who are actually content on a daily basis have got there largely because they understand these things. If you can internalise these truths, you might get a lot closer to happiness than you were before.
1. Happiness is a choice, not just a feeling.
Happy people know that joy isn’t something that just happens to them. They actively choose to focus on the positive aspects of life. That doesn’t mean ignoring problems, but rather approaching challenges with a constructive mindset. They make a conscious effort to find reasons to be happy each day.
2. Gratitude can transform your outlook.
People who are genuinely happy often practise gratitude regularly. They take time to appreciate the good things in their lives, big and small. It could be through keeping a gratitude journal, sharing their thanks with other people, or simply pausing to acknowledge positive moments. Focusing on what they’re grateful for helps maintain a positive perspective.
3. Self-care is crucial, not selfish.
Happy individuals prioritise taking care of themselves. They understand that looking after their physical, emotional, and mental well-being is essential. Maybe it involves setting aside time for relaxation, pursuing hobbies, or saying no to commitments that would stretch them too thin. They know that self-care enables them to be their best selves.
4. Relationships matter more than material possessions.
Those who are truly happy value their connections with people above material things. They invest time and energy into nurturing relationships with family, friends, and their community. They understand that shared experiences and meaningful conversations contribute more to happiness than accumulating stuff. Building and maintaining strong relationships is a priority for them.
5. Perfection is impossible and unnecessary.
Happy people accept that perfection is an unrealistic goal. They strive to do their best but don’t beat themselves up over minor flaws or mistakes. Instead, they view challenges as opportunities to learn and grow. This mindset allows them to enjoy their achievements without being overly critical of themselves.
6. Change is a natural part of life.
People who maintain happiness understand that change is inevitable. They’re adaptable and see change as an opportunity rather than a threat. Their flexibility helps them navigate life’s ups and downs with resilience. They focus on what they can control and try to approach new situations with an open mind.
7. Helping other people boosts your own happiness.
Happy individuals often find joy in helping other people. They understand that acts of kindness benefit the recipient and increase their own sense of well-being. This could involve volunteering, supporting a friend, or simply performing random acts of kindness. They recognise the positive impact their actions can have on both other people and themselves.
8. It’s okay to say no sometimes.
People who maintain happiness know the importance of setting boundaries. They’re comfortable saying no to commitments or requests that don’t align with their values or would cause undue stress. This allows them to focus their energy on things that truly matter to them. They understand that saying no to some things means saying yes to their well-being.
9. Comparison is the thief of joy.
Happy people avoid constantly comparing themselves to other people. They focus on their own progress and goals rather than measuring themselves against someone else’s achievements. They understand that everyone’s journey is unique. Instead of comparing, they celebrate their own growth and other people’s success.
10. Small pleasures add up to big happiness.
Those who are content appreciate life’s simple joys. They find happiness in everyday moments — a good cup of coffee, a beautiful sunset, or a friendly chat with a neighbour. They don’t wait for big events to feel happy, but actively pursue and enjoy these small pleasures. Doing so helps them maintain a positive outlook day-to-day.
11. Physical health impacts mental well-being.
Happy people recognise the connection between physical and mental health. They prioritise taking care of their bodies through regular exercise, healthy eating, and sufficient sleep. They understand that feeling good physically often leads to feeling good mentally. That doesn’t mean they’re fitness fanatics, but they make an effort to maintain healthy habits.
12. Learning is a lifelong journey.
Those who maintain happiness embrace continuous learning. They’re curious about the world and always open to new ideas and experiences. That might mean they read a lot, regularly try new hobbies, or just try to have more thought-provoking conversations. They find joy in expanding their knowledge and skills throughout their lives.
13. Failure is a stepping stone, not a dead end.
Source: Unsplash Happy individuals view failure as a natural part of growth, rather than a reflection of their worth. They understand that setbacks provide valuable lessons and opportunities for improvement. Instead of dwelling on failures, they focus on what they can learn from the experience. Their resilient attitude helps them bounce back from disappointments.
14. Living in the present moment enhances happiness.
Source: Unsplash People who are genuinely happy try to live in the present. While they plan for the future and learn from the past, they don’t let worry about tomorrow or regret about yesterday overshadow today. They practise mindfulness, fully engaging in current experiences. It helps them appreciate life as it happens, rather than always looking ahead or behind.
