They say happiness is a journey, not a destination. And we all want to be happy, right? But despite our best efforts, happiness is often like an elusive goal. Something that slips away from us just when we think we have it figured out. But from my experience, here are the secrets to finding happiness in your life and work.
Take responsibility
Before we can be happy, we need to first take full responsibility for our own happiness. Because the truth is that happiness is not the same as success, and it is not something other people can bestow on us.
Our happiness is instead determined by our thoughts and our choices.
The good news is that these are completely within our own control. And once we take responsibility for these, we are able to actively practice and cultivate happiness in our lives.
Define what happiness is to you
Let’s be clear, there is no proforma for how to be happy. Instead, it’s a unique combination of things that defines happiness for each of us. So if you want to be happier in your life, define what happiness means to you.
And I mean actually get a pen and paper out and create a concrete definition of what will make you happy.
Take a holistic view and consider all aspects of your life to get crystal clear on what you really want.
Allow yourself to dream and work out what excites you, without worrying about what others think or expect (you’ll never please everyone anyway!). Keep in mind that for some, happiness is living a simple, quiet existence, while others seek a grand lifestyle, influence and a demanding career. Just remember, there is no right or wrong.
Commit to action
Once you know what happiness looks like for you, define the key milestones and set meaningful goals accordingly. Here’s an excellent free resource to help you define and achieve your goals.
Commit to doing the work necessary to achieve your goals through focused, consistent action. Be prepared to keep going when things get tough, as they inevitably will, and ensure your big picture front of mind.
Focus on the little things
Just as important as achieving big goals is to focus on the little things.
Start paying attention to what simple things and moments bring you joy. Often these are simple things like reading, a nice glass of wine or being outdoors.
Once you identify these things, find ways to actively incorporate them into your routine. By increasing your awareness and appreciation of these small things, you’ll notice how practising gratitude increases your overall happiness.
Keep growing and learning
A growth mindset is a secret of happiness as it allows us to remain appreciative and optimistic even when things aren’t perfect, which in reality, they never are.
By staying focused on improvement, growth and learning we are able to find happiness in the process of living, rather than expecting happiness to be a destination or fixed point.
Do you want to create more happiness & alignment in your career & life? It might be time to consider working with a Coach. Click here to find out more.
Spot on as usual Bec. So often we are “rushing” around trying to find happiness, we forget that it can be the little things that bring so much joy.
A pleasure to (read as per usual)
Ahh, thanks Michelle. Funny how we all need a reminder every now & then.