4 Tips For Your Pursuit Of Happiness
A 2019 research by the General Social Survey suggested that more Americans are growing increasingly unhappy with figures indicating a deeper nose-dive since 2000. Meanwhile, other studies have suggested that acquiring happiness is more of a habit than an act. In his book titled “authentic happiness,” well-known American psychologist Martin Seligman suggested that being happy in life is more of a pursuit than something you can acquire. While this makes sense, it does not mean you will stay upbeat all the time. For example, being at work can make you feel important – yet unhappy, so you should strive to stay happy most of the time. Are you finding it challenging to cultivate this habit? Here are a few tips to make your pursuit of happiness easier for you.
- Choose happiness
If it were that easy, we would not be here, but trying to see issues in the positive light than negatively can go a long way. In case you do not know how, begin by being mindful of your self-talk. Pay attention to the words you say to yourself, and if they are not positive, replace them with nicer things. A few people naturally focus on positives, yet for others, the first thing they observe is negative. Make a conscious effort to change that as it is even crucial to your psychological wellbeing and happiness.
- Create a personalized work-life balance
Balancing does not mean half work and half leisure. It is about choosing what is appropriate for you. Start by identifying what is more important to you and create room in your day or week for that. This will ensure you go through life doing the things that add value to you. To deal with that, there are loads of skills you will need; building firm boundaries and discipline is one significant skill to achieve the right work-life balance.
- Stay away from perfectionism
The quest for perfection often leads to disappointment, and eventually leads to negative self-talk. At that point, it is just a matter of time before it starts taking a toll on your mental and psychological well being. Endeavor to accomplish your best work and excuse yourself on those days that it is rarely perfect. This will reduce the pressure you put on yourself and help you to stay grounded. Fortunately, there are several online resources you can use to learn more about the subject.
- Comparisons are unhealthy
One problematic aspect of the journey towards happiness is not understanding that things may be okay the way they are. More often than not, some people allow the drama and dilemma of each day to get in the way of their happiness. However, there is no point in feeling frustrated about things you cannot change. There is also no reason to change who you are for people to validate you. It is unhealthy to compete with others as everyone has their own path, and you are right where you should be. Whatever discomfort you should feel should be geared towards making yourself better than you were yesterday.