Contentment, joy, satisfaction - words that are all used to express happiness. As it should be, happiness can have different connotations for different people, a feeling that all is well and more importantly, it is that elusive quality that all human beings yearn for, yet find so hard to achieve.
Happiness is, of course, an intangible state of being. But is it possible to stay in this mode 24/7? Definitely not. Our surroundings will affect our mood and circumstances, because of which our gaiety index will keep fluctuating.
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You may ask - how then do we maintain sanity amongst the chaos and noise that surrounds us. Whether you are in the midst of it or just caught in the fray, developing an island of stability around you will help maintain your calm. I agree that this is much easier said than done, but here are a few pointers that might help us stay on course.
Attitude is half the battle in a difficult situation. Staying optimistic releases endorphins or “happy hormones”, sends a constructive message to our brain and shifts focus on to the positive aspects. This healthy outlook will go a long way in moulding us to be pragmatic rather than dramatic.
Now, we have all heard of the glass half-full analogy. This litmus test determines if a particular situation should be a cause for pessimism (half empty) or optimism (half full). Our point of view reframes our position and this highlights the opportunities that can be taken advantage of, rather than problems to avoid. It definitely helps to look on the bright side of things.
However, this does not imply that we ignore the negatives, instead acknowledging, validating and addressing them allows us to move forward without hanging on to animosity, a trait that will help us respond rather than react to situations that are not in our favour.
Aiming for contentment in every endeavour can be the strength that puts us at ease with our situation, body and mind.
Socrates described this by saying, "He who is not content with what he has, would not be contented with what he would like to have."
My personal mantra to you would be to focus on what you can change within yourself or your environment, and start taking small steps in that direction. The trick is to focus your energies on what you can control, while letting go of the rest.
It's very simple, happiness does not depend on what wehave, but on what we are. Look inward to introspect, accept your negatives, celebrate every success, acknowledge your potential and strive for fulfillment.
Remember, you are not what happened to you, you are what you choose to become.
