Finding Happiness Within Ourselves

We live our best life when we’re at peace with ourselves; but what are the steps that will lead us to this place?

Below are a few suggestions:

1.  Figure out what your purpose in life is. If you know why you’re here, and what you want to do with your life, you’re less likely to be derailed by the words, attitudes and actions of others. Even if they are critical of you, or they clearly don’t like who you are, it will bother you less.

2. Know what your values are. These will enable you to determine what matters to you, and what doesn’t matter to you. It will help you prioritize the things which are important.  Also, when we live a life that is consistent with our values, we have a sense of peace, and of inner happiness.

3. Focus on forging meaningful connections with others. Relationships matter. Strong, rewarding, relationships – where you both enjoy being with each other – can make a huge difference to your happiness. In contrast, destructive or abusive relationships are a source of grief, and great unhappiness.

Note: You do not have to be in relationship with everyone. Sometimes you need to walk away, or put distance between yourself and someone else. Choose relationships which bring out the best in you: relationships which add value to your life.

4. Slow down the pace, and add margin to your life. No-one is happy when they’re stretched and under pressure. Some of the pressure will be unavoidable. But, hopefully, those pressures will be temporary too.

One thing you can work on is to only say ‘yes’ to responsibilities you can comfortably cope with. This means learning to be willing to put your own needs first. It means making time for the things you want to do. For the things that are good for you. For the things that build you up. For the things which bring you alive.

5. Don’t forget to be thankful. Developing an attitude of gratitude, really makes a difference to your mental health. There’s plenty of evidence to back this up. And the best way to establish a habit is by starting small. For example, you could begin by noticing the good, and being thankful for something that’s gone well in your day. Home in on the little things. The unexpected kindnesses. Accept compliments (instead of mindlessly brushing them aside), and give compliments to others. All of these will influence and, slowly, change your life. 

6. Make sure you do the things you enjoy. Sometimes the greatest happiness can be found in doing something we actually enjoy! It doesn’t have to be expensive, or to take up a lot of time. It could be something as simple as reading a chapter of a book, or watching a home reno program. 

7. Appreciate yourself. Have you ever taken the time to think about how wonderful you are? Honestly … there are plenty of things you can (and should) give yourself credit for. Why not start making a tentative list of all things you like, appreciate and value about yourself. 

“Relationship status: Committed to inner peace, growth, self-love and gratitude.”

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