In the journey toward a more fulfilled life, inner happiness is often taken for granted. I know, I know; it goes without saying and all that.
Does it, though?
Don’t we all look at the finish line—the end goal—and think, “I have to achieve this or else?” Inner happiness, if it does come, is more of a byproduct than the purpose of the exercise. Read more about finding true joy in my self-help book.
Rather than making you jump through hoops, today’s blog offers a roadmap for those looking to unearth the dormant joy within, making it the goal rather than the reaction to a goal.
1. Be Generous
The power of generosity is boundless, extending beyond mere actions to impact our inner well-being profoundly.
Consider tipping more, contributing a larger sum to a charitable cause, or dedicating extra time to the people around you, be they friends, family, or strangers. Do these things when you can; there’s no need to go out of your way!
When practiced sincerely, generosity becomes a powerful catalyst for joy, creating a positive ripple effect that emanates from within.
2. Forgive and Move On
Letting go, though challenging, is a liberating act. It’s even good for the heart! Holding onto mistakes, whether ours or others’, only burdens our minds, bodies, and relationships.
Acknowledging the pain, taking a deep breath, and consciously releasing these burdens are steps toward a more peaceful and joyous state. It’s a conscious choice to unshackle ourselves from the weight of the past and make way for positive thinking.
3. Change Your Habits
Our habits play a significant role in shaping our happiness. Reflect on habits that might hinder your well-being and identify the rewards sought from each.
For instance, if stress leads to unhealthy snacking, it’s crucial to explore healthier alternatives. Seeking solace in a hug or placing your hand on your heart during moments of stress can be transformative.
The key is understanding the rewards sought from habits, allowing you to develop healthier alternatives that contribute to your lasting happiness gradually.
4. Embrace Positive Thinking
Embracing positive beliefs about oneself can be a challenging yet rewarding endeavor. Challenge negative thoughts by questioning their validity.
Ask yourself if the positive belief is accurate, and if uncertain, seek external perspectives. Would someone else affirm its truth? Dig deeper into the emotional impact of accepting positive possibilities.
Savor any resulting positive feelings, creating a positive feedback loop that gradually shapes a more positive mindset.
5. Make Your Body Happy
The interconnectedness of the mind and body is undeniable. Caring for your body becomes an essential aspect of nurturing your mind.
Listen attentively to your body’s signals – how it needs to be treated, moved, and fed. Mindful attention to your body becomes a recipe for overall well-being. A healthier body becomes the canvas upon which a healthier mind can be painted.
By honoring your body’s needs, you pave the way for a heightened sense of inner happiness. If you don’t know what the concept feels like, pick up my 7 Steps to Contentment, a guide and a collection of my thoughts and discoveries over the years.
Find the answers to any questions you might have about my self-help happiness book, and ask any you can’t find here.