Just like a car, if your happiness tank is not full, it can create a space for dirt and rust to enter the fuel lines and cause damage. Leaving your tank empty can also lead to a lack of self-control and emotional resources.
Philosophers have boiled the discussion of happiness down to two basic views: hedonia and eudaimonia. Hedonia focuses on pleasure and enjoyment while eudaimonia focuses on values such as wisdom, virtues, and moderation.
It comes from within
Despite what you may think, happiness does not come from outside you. Happiness comes from within and is driven by a person’s own thoughts, beliefs and actions. You can find happiness by focusing on your inner strengths, rather than judging yourself for your shortcomings. For example, if your boss criticizes you at work, you can regain inner peace by believing that the criticism is not your fault. Inner happiness can also help you feel more confident.
Boosting your own happiness is more effective than trying to change the world around you. It takes practice, but the more you do it, the better you’ll feel. It helps to spend time doing things that you enjoy, such as volunteering or spending quality time with friends and family. Studies show that people who devote about two hours a day to activities they love experience greater overall well-being than those who do not. A positive mindset can also help you cope with difficult events, like a sudden illness or job loss.
It’s a feeling
Happiness is one of the most desirable feelings, but it’s also elusive. It is a difficult emotion to define, and different people experience happiness differently. Some describe it as a feeling of contentment and joy, while others feel a sense of meaning and purpose in life. Happiness can be achieved through a variety of ways, including consuming healthy foods and engaging in physical activities.
There are a lot of theories about how to achieve happiness, and most of them involve some form of positive thinking. However, it’s important to be careful not to try too hard to be happy. This can backfire, as it may cause you to ignore or deny negative emotions, such as sadness or anger.
Happiness is often conflated with pleasure, but there’s a distinct line between the two. Pleasure can contribute to happiness, but it’s not the same as eudaimonia, which is more of a feeling of fulfillment and satisfaction. This is a much more complex feeling than the simple pleasure of eating ice cream or watching a movie.
It’s a state of mind
Happiness is a state of mind, and it can be cultivated through mindfulness meditation. This practice helps people focus on the positive aspects of life, which can help them feel better and become stronger in the face of adversity. Practicing gratitude and adopting positive mantras can also enhance happiness. Other ways to increase happiness include practicing a hobby or engaging in activities that promote creativity.
Happier people are less likely to suffer from depression and anxiety, and they have a lower risk of heart disease. They also have higher levels of resilience and a stronger immune system, which means they are more likely to fight off illnesses. They also have lower blood pressure, and they are more likely to exercise.
It is also important to surround yourself with a group of like-minded friends that inspire the best in you. Avoid negative and close-minded people, as they can sour your mood. Moreover, you should spend money on experiences rather than possessions, as research shows that they lead to greater happiness rewards.
It’s a choice
The idea that happiness is a choice is often portrayed in positive quotes such as “choose joy” and “think happy thoughts.” These are well-meaning but misleading. They suggest that you have control over how you feel, but they don’t take into account the reality of mental illness or other challenging life events.
Happiness isn’t something that can be consciously chosen, and it is impossible to feel happy all the time. Trying to do so sets you up for disappointment and stress.
Instead, focus on what makes you happy and practice it daily. This could be anything from soaking up the sunshine to writing down things you’re grateful for. This will help you solidify the 40% of happiness that is under your control. It can also increase optimism and reduce anxiety, which are both linked to greater happiness. You can even try focusing on your breath and closing your eyes, which has been shown to improve mood.