March 20th, a date etched in our calendars as the International Day of Happiness since 2012, serves as a poignant reminder of our shared pursuit of joy and contentment. As Bobby McFerrin's timeless anthem <Don't Worry, Be Happy> echoes through the ages, its simple melody carries profound wisdom: 🎵In every life, we have some trouble, But when you worry, you make it double, Don't worry, Be happy.🎵
Happiness, often perceived as an intangible ideal, is more than a fleeting emotion—it's a state of mind. The 14th Dalai Lama, in his timeless tome <The Art of Happiness>, imparts a profound truth: "the very purpose of our life is to seek happiness."
I recall a moment of profound loss when my father passed away. The weight of grief pressed upon my heart, suffusing my days with a melancholic hue. Yet, amidst the sorrow, my mother, a steadfast beacon of wisdom, offered a perspective that shifted my understanding. She gently reminded me that my father was now free from pain and suffering, his spirit liberated to soar beyond earthly confines.
Similarly, the journey of Mo Gawdat, a former tech entrepreneur, serves as a testament to the resilience of the human spirit. Devastated by the untimely loss of his 21-year-old son, Mo embarked on a quest to understand happiness in the face of profound loss. His movement, <One Billion Happy>, bears witness to the transformative power of choosing happiness, even amidst life's darkest moments.
Here are some ideas I've cultivated to contribute to this culture of positivity:
Balance of Expectation and Contentment
Having excessively high expectations can lead to disappointment when reality doesn't meet them. By setting more realistic expectations, individuals can reduce the likelihood of disappointment and increase their satisfaction with life's outcomes. Appreciating life's simple pleasures. This shift in perspective can lead to greater contentment and fulfillment.
Money can’t buy happiness – the Illusion of Wealth
No matter it’s in real life or in the movies, we have see the starving faces filled with fear. We all have those basic needs that can be fulfilled with money. Financial security can provide peace of mind. However, it's essential to avoid the trap of comparing ourselves to others and instead recognize the value of non-material aspects of life, such as relationships and personal growth. We need to look at other valuables in our life and invest in different currencies. Yet, the true currency of happiness lies not in gold or silver but in the richness of human connection and the tapestry of shared experiences.
Altruism and Acts of kindness
Engaging in acts of kindness not only benefits others but also brings joy and fulfillment to the giver. By paying it forward and spreading positivity, we create a ripple effect of happiness that extends beyond ourselves. Helping others can indeed bring happiness by fostering a sense of purpose, strengthening social connections, cultivating gratitude, and providing psychological benefits. By paying it forward and engaging in acts of kindness, not only we are making a positive difference in the lives of others but also enhance our own well-being and happiness in the process.
Focus on Present, and Embrace Uncertainty
Life is inherently uncertain, and dwelling on "what if?" scenarios can lead to unnecessary anxiety and stress. Embracing uncertainty and adopting a more flexible mindset can help individuals navigate life's twists and turns with greater resilience and ease. Dwelling on past regrets or worrying about the future only detracts from our present happiness.
Savoring the Flavors of Life with Modesty
In our fast-paced world, it's easy to overlook the simple pleasure of enjoying a delicious meal. Yet, the act of savoring food can be a deeply satisfying experience that brings joy and contentment to our lives. Nutritionists suggest to switch to fresh, wholesome ingredients, exploring new recipes, and savoring each bite with intention.
Moderation is key. Occasionally I get intrigued by Instagram’s celebrities’ video on their lifestyles. The message I got from Jennifer Lopez’s video is that she eats ALMOST everything but with modesty. By making mindful choices, we can have 2 Oreo cookies to savor the chocolate with buttercream.
As a final note, I'd like to share one of my favorite playlists for those moments when I want to feel happy. Feel free to join in and sing along: 🎵I got this feeling inside my bones, It goes electric, wavey when I turn it on…Cause I got that sunshine in my pocket, Got that good song in my feet… I can't stop the feeling, So just dance, dance, dance🎵. Let's choose happiness, one moment at a time.
