Is happiness attainable?
Like any aspect of wellness, happiness is a constant work in progress. Question is, if it’s so fleeting, why do we strive so hard for it? And if we aren’t happy all the time, does that mean we’re unhappy? These are age-old questions that we continuously ask ourselves - let’s dive in to find out more.
Where are we now?
Happiness has been defined as a sense of joy and overall wellbeing - a state of contentment and a feeling of positive emotions.
And as satisfying as happiness feels, it is important to recognise that happiness ebbs and flows.
Experts note that happiness is not a stable, unchangeable trait and can be achieved with conviction.
What can you do?
Know that sometimes, the more we pursue happiness, the less likely we are to achieve it. Differentiating and accepting that striving for a happy life is not the same as desiring a constant state of happiness will help us accommodate the fleeting nature of happiness.
Other ways to boost one’s happiness include:
Volunteering - it provides a sense of purpose essential to happiness
Buying time - delegate unessential tasks to make time for things you love, increasing your contentment factor
Count your blessings - Reflect with gratitude and set aside some time to journal your positive thoughts and feelings
What’s next?
Remember, happiness is not a destination, it is a state of mind. Constant happiness all the time is impossible.
Letting go of the need to feel constantly happy enables us to accept the highs and lows of life and adapt to a constantly changing environment.
Happiness is a fleeting feeling that has long-lasting benefits. It’s no wonder we are conditioned to constantly chase it. But instead of seeking to be happy all the time, we should aim to inculcate practices in our life that can bring about change and happiness - to ourselves and those around us.
Here’s a guide on steps to take towards happiness.
Find out how the search for happiness makes us unhappy
Need another reason to be happy? How about the fact that it’s great for your health?