The idea of "happiness" is individualistic to each and every single person. What you view happiness to be is most likely different to the person next to you. Unfortunately, without even realising, most people conform to societal notions and ideals of happiness. You might think you know what true happiness looks like, but really you could be allowing outside influences define this for you. This can slowly begin to overtake you and soon enough you are chasing someone else's vision of happiness - not your own.
When I started to heal from my own mental health issues, there were certain decisions I had to make. Recognising each of these and promising myself to stick by them didn't happen over night, but it made all the difference in my mindset and thought processes. Here are the promises I made to remind myself:
Forgive yourself for all the times you were self-destructive and start again
The past is the past and it cannot be changed - continue to look forward and focus on what is to come
Don't allow the mistakes of others to control your destiny
Every day is a new day - you are the one who decides whether or not you choose to make happiness a priority.
Finding fulfilment and true happiness can take time, especially if you are learning to heal from past trauma or are battling mental health issues. For someone who is wanting to live a happier life, I've put together a few recommendations on how you can begin this journey and focus on what is most important to you (and NOT what society tells you is important).
1. Find your purpose in life
Everyone has been put on this Earth for a reason and has the ability to contribute to society in one way or another. I've always believed in the quote, "If you do what you love, you'll never work a day in your life". Get to know yourself and discover what you are truly passionate about, then commit to it. Don't try to rush the process, it will come to you. Sometimes it requires working on yourself first in order to discover your true purpose.
2. Be open to change
Change is inevitable. I grew up experiencing a lot of change in my life (and not always for the better) and it used to scare me. When you start to accept that change is not something you can always control, it becomes easier to adapt. Try to focus on the positives and always have a contingency plan in place. Be open to new opportunities and a new direction in life if it comes your way.
3. Learn to love the simple pleasures
Be grateful for the small things in life. Instant gratification and materialistic items only tend to offer you a short-term high and won't fulfil you on a deeper level. Learn to look forward to experiences that allow you to grow as a person as well as the smaller pleasures that bring you genuine satisfaction and joy. To learn more about how you can incorporate gratitude into your life, head to my blog post here.
4. Recognise your core values and follow them
The more you honour the things you believe in, the better you will feel within. If something doesn't sit right with you and feels wrong, then don't engage with it. Listen to your heart and know that you don't have to support anything that doesn't align with who you are and your values. Remember, these values can change and develop as you begin to step into your true self and grow as a person.
5. Spend time with good people who make you smile
Allow yourself to be surrounded by good energy. The people who love you will make you smile and laugh for all the right reasons. Choose your circle wisely and only allow the people who have your best interest at heart to enter your life.
I hope this post has inspired or perhaps helped anyone looking to find true happiness and fulfilment within their lives. You can't expect lifelong mindset changes to happen quickly, but I promise that doing any form of work like this on yourself is always worth it. It is possible, just believe in yourself.
Until next time;
peace and love,
Tina
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