The happiness formula – Proven practices to be more happy!
In the past, there was a common belief that happiness could be attained through exotic vacations or by accumulating wealth and possessions.
However, it didn’t take long for us to realize that the happiness derived from purchasing experiences or material goods was fleeting. We often found ourselves quickly forgetting about our previous acquisitions and eagerly seeking the next big thing.
Why true happiness comes from within
As humans, we possess a natural inclination to continually desire more, and several factors contribute to this constant striving:
- Evolutionary Instinct. Our ancestors had to constantly pursue additional resources to ensure their survival. While this instinct remains, many of us now live in a world of relative comfort, where such constant seeking is no longer necessary.
- Comparative Nature. Humans have a tendency to compare themselves to others, whether it’s regarding material possessions, achievements, or social status. This inclination has been exacerbated by the interconnected world we live in, where social media has made it almost compulsive to showcase our life’s successes.
- Hedonistic Adaptation. We tend to adapt to both positive and negative situations over time. This means that even if we attain our desired goals, the initial excitement diminishes as we become accustomed to the new status quo.
Over time, we’ve learned that true happiness cannot be found externally; it can only be cultivated from within. To achieve genuine happiness, there is a specific formula we must follow. Building daily habits aligned with this formula is essential to experience inner peace and happiness.
Like any worthwhile endeavor, it requires effort, but the reward of a profound sense of happiness and well-being makes it all worthwhile.
Here are the four foundational pillars of happiness.
01. Prioritizing self-care
As we age, it becomes increasingly important to nurture both our physical and mental well-being. Dedicate time to yourself, engage in reading, take leisurely strolls in natural surroundings, and don’t forget to treat yourself now and then.
Additionally, it’s beneficial to nourish our bodies with a well-balanced, nutritious diet, incorporate daily exercise into our routines, and make room for meditation.
02. Embracing the present moment
Eckhart Tolle, a revered proponent of present living, aptly stated, “If you are not living in this moment, you are not truly living”.
Often, we find ourselves dwelling in the past or fretting about the future, inadvertently missing out on the joy of the present. Authentic happiness is only attainable when we fully engage with and relish the here and now.
So, in the words of Eckhart Tolle, let us remember that authentic living occurs when we immerse ourselves fully in the present. Let’s savor the richness of the current moment and discover the unparalleled happiness that it can bring.
03. Acknowledging impermanence
Genuine happiness necessitates embracing the impermanent nature of our existence in this world. Every individual on this planet shares the same mortality, and we are all on a collective journey.
Recognizing that our time on Earth is finite and that nothing remains permanent can instigate a profound transformation in how we live. It enables us to fully appreciate and treasure each unique moment on this remarkable planet.
In essence, we cannot truly live without an awareness of our mortality, just as we cannot truly appreciate life without acknowledging our inevitable mortality.
04. Cultivating positivity
The power of positive thinking is remarkable in its ability to elevate our happiness and overall well-being. It’s essential to train our minds to adopt a positive perspective, and one effective method is daily gratitude practice, which redirects our attention towards life’s positive facets.
Consider the practice of jotting down five things you’re grateful for each day; it can be instrumental in developing this positive mindset. Remember, happiness resides within each of us; we simply need to look within to discover it!
