A universal pursuit for humans is happiness. Think about it, from morning till night, most of what we do is rooted in happiness. We work to earn money in order to live comfortably and support our families. Also, we invest time into building relationships with family and friends. We chase dreams and develop ambitions – all for the sake of feeling happy and fulfilled. But what brings us happiness? Is it the success of reaching a goal? Something much deeper?
What is Happiness?
Happiness is not a feeling that lasts a little while, such as when you enjoy a comforting episode of your favorite show, or when you eat dessert, or when you buy something new. This kind of joy is sometimes a little superficial. Real happiness is not fleeting or superficial and is much deeper. It is a way of living authentically and experiencing meaning, purpose, and connectedness. Authentic happiness typically includes experiencing the fleeting nature of happiness in fleeting moments.
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One significant finding across the research on happiness is that having loving relationships contributes to our happiness and longevity. Individuals who have close relationships with family and friends have better support systems and don’t feel as lonely. They are often better able to manage stress and are more likely to believe they have someone to reach out to during tough times. In fact, relationships tend to be much more vital to a person’s happiness than money or success in their careers.
Gratitude is Significant
Taking the time to be thankful for what you have, is a great way to increase your happiness. Research has shown that people who take at least 5 minutes to think about the good things in life, such as health, family, friends, or small pleasures, are generally more content and peaceful. Gratitude is an effective way to focus on what you do have and to appreciate rather than bring to mind what you do not have. This way of thinking creates a sense of comfort and inner peace.
Living With Purpose
Another important key to happiness is being able to live with purpose in mind. Those people who feel their life has meaning, whether that is related to family, work, helping others, or spiritual beliefs, tend to feel more inclined towards fulfillment. Knowing your purpose provides your actions with direction and therefore has us make more sense out of life, especially during challenges. Living with intent and meaning, is difficult to argue is easy. But our life has true happiness.
Helping Others Be Kind
Doing something kind, even something trivial, can greatly help create HAPPINESS. Whenever we positively assist someone, our minds release chemicals that make us feel advantageous and connected to the solved problems. These might be as easy as supporting a friend, volunteering, or just simply being generous themselves, by helping create happiness for others.
A Healthy Body Is a Healthy Mind
How we take care of our bodies can greatly impact happiness. Positive activities like exercise, a good night’s sleep, and eating healthy foods all contribute to feeling better, reducing anxiety, and improving mood. When your body feels better, your mind will function better too. You don’t have to go to the gym every day… you could go for a quick walk, have sleep that feels restful, or eat a few more fruits and vegetables, and you will feel the effects of good health on your body and mind.
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Conclusion: Creating a happier life
Happiness is not found. Happiness is created through the choices we make each day. When we develop strong positive relationships, we live more purposefully, we are kind to ourselves and others, we take care of our bodies and health, and we practice mindfulness; we experience greater fulfillment, peace, and purpose even within life’s obstacles.
