Happiness is a word we hear so often, yet it remains one of the most misunderstood concepts in our lives. Many people associate happiness with wealth, fame, or luxury. But as I’ve grown older, I’ve come to realize that true happiness often lies in the smallest, simplest moments that we tend to overlook.
I remember when I was a child, happiness had a completely different meaning. It wasn’t about owning a new phone or having millions in my bank account. It was about chasing butterflies, playing under the rain with friends, or receiving a surprise snack from my mum after school. There’s one particular memory that has stayed with me over the years. I must have been about 8 or 9 years old. One afternoon, after a long day at school, I came home feeling tired and hungry. I didn’t expect anything special, but to my surprise, my mum had made my favorite meal—jollof rice with fried plantain. But it wasn’t just the food that made me happy—it was the thoughtfulness behind it. That small act of love brought a sense of joy that words could barely explain.
Looking back now, I realize that moment taught me something very valuable. Happiness isn't always found in big achievements or expensive possessions. It’s in connection. It’s in feeling seen, loved, and valued.
In our fast-paced world today, it’s easy to think we’ll only be happy when we get the next big thing—a new job, a car, a relationship, or recognition. While those things can bring temporary satisfaction, they don’t always create lasting happiness. I’ve learned that true happiness is internal. It’s a state of being that’s rooted in gratitude, contentment, and purpose.
I’ve also learned that happiness is personal. What makes me happy might not make someone else happy. For some, happiness is spending quality time with family. For others, it could be reading a book, traveling, or serving others. There’s no one-size-fits-all. The key is discovering what truly fills your soul and makes you come alive, then making room for those things regularly in your life.
Over the years, I’ve started paying more attention to the things that bring me joy.
Another thing that’s helped me is letting go of comparison. Social media has a way of making us feel like we’re not doing enough or that our lives are not as exciting as others. But I’ve come to realize that comparison steals joy. We’re all running different races and growing at different paces. Focusing on my own journey and being grateful for what I have helps me stay grounded in happiness.
In conclusion, happiness isn’t as far away as we think. It’s not in the future; it’s in the now. It’s in the laughter shared with loved ones, in the little surprises, in kind gestures, and even in memories from our childhood. Like that plate of jollof rice and plantain, happiness often comes when we least expect it—but only if we learn to notice it.