Why Is Happiness a State of Mind and How to Achieve It



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Does your state of mind depend on the situations happening in life? Are you constantly in pursuit of happiness? Well, it is the one common goal that everyone hopes to achieve. Though you may find difficulty in staying happy all the time, it is not impossible. 

We usually have deep, philosophical conversations about things that truly matter. But when it comes to finding happiness in our own lives, most of us struggle. It is one of the challenges we encounter almost every day.

When asked about a moment of being truly happy, you might think back of external factors like a job promotion or a dream vacation. However, it is said that lasting happiness comes from what happens within you. 

Our mind is a complex dwelling that consists of a multitude of intellectual and emotional thoughts. These are consequences of how we react to certain circumstances or people around us. 

Understanding what makes you genuinely happy is crucial to make meaningful choices of the people you surround yourself with or the activities you engage in. Once you become aware of what stimulates your happiness, you can use it to alter how you view situations.

The way we perceive the world largely depends on our inner state of mind. You might have realized how an erratic, confused mind can lead to hasty decisions while a calm wit often results in a positive outlook. 

There is no guide or manual on how to be happy. To deal with challenges and to find happiness in little moments, here are a few simple practices that you can easily adopt.


1. Accept and Forgive


The first step towards well-being is wholeheartedly accepting the way you are. It means not suppressing but acknowledging the feelings of resentment, envy, anxiety, or sadness. No person is perfect. Embrace your flaws with an open mind. Do not treat yourself harshly for feeling low or sailing through a sea of negative emotions on a particular day.

Forgiveness is another quality that we all must inculcate to radiate positivity and to move on without anger or personal vendetta. It is difficult to make progress if you keep stumbling over old roadblocks or hold grudges. The sooner you forgive yourself or others, the faster you tread on the path of happiness.


2. Focus on the Present


Each day comes with new opportunities. What is important is to grab every such opportunity and to make the most of it. There is no point in lamenting the past or worrying about the future. Living in the moment is a state of being aware and giving attention to the present.

Most of us who do not live in the present lose precious moments only to become a victim of remorse later. Appreciate every pain-staking effort that brings you closer to your goals. You are the controller of your happiness. The present is ephemeral. So, not let it slip out of your hands.


3. Be Around Uplifting People


It is no secret that the people around you can have a huge impact on your life. A positive company can inspire you to make the right decisions at every juncture, make you feel good about your personality and cheer you to become the best version of yourself.

To keep the atmosphere around you healthy and to develop a new skill, it is imperative to spend time or associate with somebody who is better at it than you. Get rid of anyone who pulls you down or whose demeanour is ridden by negativity.


4. Smile and Make Others Smile


The quickest fix to a melancholic mood is a smile. Studies have proven that on smiling, our brain releases endorphins that make us feel happier and calmer. So, the next time you feel gloomy or dull, bask in the warmth of your own smile and quickly transform your temper.

Making someone smile or improving their day is the simplest act of kindness that can make you joyous. It also shows people that you care about their presence. Do not forget to put a wide grin even on the sourest faces and help emanate positivity in your network.


5. Love Yourself

 

When you recognize the beauty that lies inside you, everything around will keep getting better. All you need to do is illuminate the beautiful light within and learn to channelize it in an appropriate way. This will give you the power to transform the apprehensive images into constructive ones.

How empowering would it be to never doubt who you are and what you can achieve and simply believe in your capabilities to live the life you deserve? Instead of being your worst enemy, become your best supporter. Your state of mind depends on the simple choices you make. 

Learn to depend on yourself rather than others to bring contentment. The secret to living merrily is being grateful and deciding that you have everything you need to be happy. 

Stop expecting people to be the reason for your happiness. You, and only you are the sculptor of your life - the masterpiece that each one of us is crafting.


Written by - Aishwarya Khandekar

Edited by - Daity Talukdar