Happiness is not an acquired taste. It just does not happen by the swish of the wand. It takes some effort and embracing the seemingly minor changes in life to achieve that nirvana.
Here I am not going to give any magic formula or some instant recipe to achieve happiness – that internal peace – through some tricks. But these minor life changing hacks are tried and tested by scientists, laymen and people like us.
Sometimes we assure ourselves that if we just achieve one more milestone, a little more money, a little more raise in the salary, a little more time with family, a little more of this and that; then we will be happy. Yes to some extent, all these efforts help. But for a long lasting joy, it’s a lifestyle that needs to be changed because this event-based happiness is just momentary.
So, if you are overwhelmed by the hectic routine, troubled by the over-invasion of technology, stressed by the multi-tasking and strive to have some glimmer of sunshine in the shape of happiness then you are surely at a right place.
Without further ado, let’s indulge in some of the time-tested techniques.
1. Savour the Little Pleasures
Humans are the creatures of habit. Wake up, do the job, have fun with friends and family and sleep. People do enjoy the routine and feel comfortable in their zones.
Does that mean they are happy?
No! They are just scared to step out of their comforting yet treacherous routine.
This is not happiness. Happiness comes by identifying and feeling every single pleasing moment of your life even within the boring routines.
I am sure many of you have heard/read Keats. He was a poet living a life of suffering and died at a very young age yet he believed:
"Beauty is truth, truth beauty, - that is all
Ye know on earth, and all ye need to know."
And for sure if you are able to find the beauty in seemingly minor occurrences, then you have come close to your goal of happiness.
A delicious breakfast in the morning, sound of birds, pitter-patter of rain on the window, smile of a colleague, no rush hour, the smell of coffee, the sight of colourful & fresh vegetables, a good hair day; just savour each and every little moment and feel the depth of happiness.
2. Money Matters
Yes, money is an important part of our lives especially the life we have to live in a consumer society. But the grave mistake that we have made is to confuse the concept of “need” and “want.” Once you are able to differentiate the meaning, you will realize that money is just a relative term. Instead of you running after money, it will follow you.
The best way to let the concept sync in is by sharing the money. Give gifts, help the needy or just spend on something that will benefit someone other than you. Consider these small acts of generosity as karma. And good karma always bring happiness.
3. Positivity is the Key to Happiness
Stay positive and stay happy. It is as simple as that. If things are not going your way then do you think the same rotten state of affairs will continue forever? No. This is where the positive attitude comes into play. It helps you to find a way even through the mess.it helps you to stay focused. And it helps you to stay happy.
As Elves Presley said, “When things go wrong, don't go with them.”
Stay afloat and brave the tide.
4. Let Nature be Your Guide
Have you ever let yourself lose in the songs of nature?
Have you ever heard the songs of nature?
You might say that you live in a metropolis, where can you find valleys and waterfalls? But open the eyes of your soul.
Waking up a bit early in the morning amid the concrete buildings can give you the taste. Gazing at stars can be your heaven. A few hours over the weekend spent in some natural refuge can be your calling. Just find a way out without giving any excuse. And you will be surprised at the immense healing power of nature to bring you inner satisfaction.
“Not just beautiful, though--the stars are like the trees in the forest, alive and breathing. And they're watching me.” (Haruki Murakami)
This is what nature does to you.
“Live in each season as it passes; breathe the air, drink the drink, taste the fruit, and resign yourself to the influence of the earth.” (Henry David Thoreau)
This is what nature gives you.
“To me the meanest flower that blows can give
Thoughts that do often lie too deep for tears.” (Wordsworth)
This is what nature teaches you.
5. Sleep to Revive
Living in the ‘online-world’ has deprived many people a good sleep. In their bid to succeed and do more they have neglected their bodily needs. Our body needs some time to relax and repair to handle a fresh onslaught of activities. A good sleep ensures that you wake up active, alert and energetic. It also serves as a memory boost.
So have a little mercy on yourself and give yourself enough sleep to have a happy body and soul.
6. Do not be a Technology Slave
Do not let the technology control you. You be the boss and you take the charge. It is there to facilitate your life and not to mess with it. While eating with friends, hide away the phones. Create technology-free days in your life; at least once every week. Give yourself regular break from the screen. And break means Break. Even if you are eating alone, savour every morsel. Concentrate on food, not on screen.
7. Your Company Defines you
“But if you're gonna dine with them cannibals Sooner or later, darling, you're gonna get eaten . . .” (Nick Cave)
So the choice is yours. You can be happy with the company that you keep or you can stay a miserable day in and day out.
Always remember that you are not in this world to please others when they just throw their negativity at you. Step away and enjoy the peace of mind.
Do not be afraid to accept new challenges. Do not shy away from the thrill of living the life. Check the opportunities as every step can open a new door. Such an attitude helps you to stay “alive.” You feel thrilled at the challenge. This also helps you to stay away from whining and nagging.
9. Exercise
A little exercise goes a long way. You do not have to hit the gym if you do not feel like. But make sure to leave the four walls, breathe the fresh air and walk for 10 to 15 minutes with your favourite music listening on iTunes. Being outside near the beach or trees or mountains or park can make a huge difference. Not only this practice uplifts your mood, it also rejuvenates your physical functions.
10. Gratitude
Be grateful for every single blessing. Be grateful for being alive.
“Walk as if you are kissing the Earth with your feet.” (Thich Nhat Hanh)
This should be your attitude.
Finally, to put all the small acts into perspective, follow the following guide:
a) Don’t compare yourself with others
b) Make every ‘NOW’ moment counts
c) Think positive
d) Show gratitude
e) Be patient and judge less
f) Go outdoors
g) Be kind and honest
h) Sleep well
i) Select friends that genuinely make you happy
j) Be generous
k) Be open minded
l) Don’t make excuses
m) Love yourself
n) Simply be happy