5 Steps To Living A Happier Life

February 29, 2008

Photo by Mihaylova
happiness.jpgSome people have a belief that happiness must be earned by first experiencing work, hardship, and pain.   

My question to them is, “How do you know when you have sustained enough pain to deserve happiness? 

Happiness is not something you earn, but rather it is something you bring about.  It comes from within by the thoughts you have and the choices you make.  Happiness is being at peace with yourself.

“There is one sure way to find happiness.  That is by controlling your thoughts.”  ~ Dale Carnegie

How do you find peace with yourself so that you can have happiness?

  1. By giving more.  Give to others for the simple joy of giving.  Give unconditionally. 
  2. By expecting less.  When you give to others, expect nothing in return.  Realize that many people are not good at expressing gratitude and then you won’t be disappointed when they don’t return the favor. 
  3. By living simply.  While buying that new sports car will bring you pleasure, it will not bring you happiness.  Pleasure is short lived while happiness is long term.
  4. By freeing your mind of worries.  If you are worrying about something, most likely it is something beyond your power to change.  Don’t dwell on problems such as finances or you may pay a higher price with your health.
  5. By freeing your heart of hatred.  Learn to forgive those who have hurt you.  Not forgiving someone hurts you more than it hurts them.  Chances are, they are going on with life as usual and don’t even know you are carrying the hatred for them. 

Happiness is having the freedom, health, and opportunity to do great things for yourself and others.  And happier people are healthier people, both mentally and physically. 

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Posted by Julie Alexander | Filed Under Blog, Wellness 

Comments

One Response to “5 Steps To Living A Happier Life”

  1. Beautiful is a State of Mind on May 3rd, 2008 11:20 pm

    I really liked and agree with that post, especially point no. 2 expect less, i always feel it best to expect nothing, life always surprises you pleasantly. As for living a simple life, that is one tenet of Mahatma Gandhi (a major influence) that i aspire to achieve in life.

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