On Finding Happiness

With the growth of Positive Psychology and Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction, “happiness” is quickly becoming a buzzword and seeking it has become a pop-culture trend. Yoga has become the norm, less for the internal transformation, and more for the much sought after “Yoga-butt”. While these programs are no doubt a step in the right direction, there is another aspect to them, a deeper aspect, which brings about true contentment.

In a fast-paced world, there is little time to appreciate events that transpire – good or bad – before quickly moving on to the next. Because unfortunately, in a fast-paced world, there is always a next. As soon as one achievement has been met, it’s time to prepare for and plan out the next step, project, or goal.

 

But if we’re talking about happiness, there isn’t a next step. Happiness starts in whatever moment you choose to accept. I don’t mean in whatever moment you choose to accept happiness, or in particular moments where only good things are happening. True happiness is acceptance of all things. It means slowing down just enough to recognize what is happening in the present moment, and acknowledging that moment, whether it’s positive, happy, stressful, angry, or sad.

 

It may seem counterintuitive, that admitting a moment is “sad” or “angry” can bring you happiness, but the nature of happiness means finding internal stability through all circumstances. The way to do this is to open up to all moment – even the tough ones – and acknowledge whatever is present.

 

Oddly enough, a synonym for “acknowledgement” is “gratitude.”  Having gratitude for the good times is important, but having gratitude for personal obstacles and challenges manifests true insights about the bigger picture. Without dark moments, there is no context for brighter ones.

 

By giving each experience its 15 minutes in the spotlight, we’re able to adequately examine it for exactly what it is, slow down enough to catch our breath, and be able to live happily in the present moment.