Happiness starts with you. YOU — Not your relationship, not your job, not your money, not your designer clothes, purses or shoes.
Since as soon as we were all able to comprehend things, we have been told that we need to step on life to reach our goals.
For example, get A+ and 90+ average to get into the best universities, then work hard to get good grades to make it through university. As soon as you have graduated, get a job, pay off your student loans, get married, buy a house with a white picket fence, have two kids, a dog, and as you progress up your career, go on luxury vacations, buy better and bigger cars, and houses. Do what the Joneses are doing or bigger and better. This list is endless. And it will never bring you happiness. Trust me, I know. I did this crap before and then figured out that this is not a happy life!
From a very young age, we are conditioned to believe that life is a series of milestones we need to achieve to be considered successful and happy. Society has set a standard, a checklist of accomplishments, that many of us blindly follow without questioning if these achievements genuinely bring us joy. The truth is, happiness is not a destination; it's a journey that starts from within.
The Illusion of External Happiness
Imagine happiness as your very own pet unicorn. It doesn’t belong to your relationship, your job, or your money—it’s your unicorn, and it starts with you! We’ve been enchanted to believe that the magic wand of happiness lies in external things like a fancy job, a treasure chest of gold coins, or a dreamy relationship. But these are just glittery illusions. They might bring a spark of joy, but true happiness comes from your inner magic. It’s about finding harmony and delight in who you are, not in what you possess.
Think about it like this: you get that dream job and you’re on cloud nine. But after the initial euphoria wears off, you’re back to the daily grind, and suddenly, that dream job feels more like just a job. Or you buy the latest gadget, and it’s thrilling at first, but soon it’s just another item on the shelf. Happiness derived from external sources is fleeting because it’s based on conditions that are always changing.
The Problem with Comparison
Beware of the Comparison Trap Dungeon! Comparing yourself to others is a one-way ticket to feeling like a noob. The "Joneses" are the dungeon bosses of societal pressure, flaunting their shiny new gadgets, epic job titles, and 
seemingly perfect lives. Remember, everyone’s adventure is unique, and what works for someone else might not be your legendary path.
Comparison is the thief of joy. When you compare your behind-the-scenes to someone else’s highlight reel, you’re setting yourself up for disappointment. Social media exacerbates this problem by showcasing only the best moments of other people's lives, making it easy to feel like you’re falling short. The reality is, everyone has struggles and imperfections; they just don’t broadcast them.
The Trap of Materialism
Sure, material treasures can bring comfort and excitement, but they’re not the keys to the kingdom of happiness. The thrill of a new loot drop fades, leaving you on the hunt for more. Instead of obsessing over what you don’t have, try counting your blessings. Appreciating the small joys in your daily quest can power up your happiness meter.
Consider this: how many times have you bought something you thought would make you happy, only to find yourself bored with it a few weeks later? The newness wears off, and you’re left chasing the next thing that promises happiness. Instead, try focusing on experiences and relationships, which tend to bring longer-lasting joy than material goods.
Finding Happiness Within
Ready to embark on your quest for inner happiness? Here are your mission objectives:
- Self-Reflection Scrolls: Take a break to ponder your life. What truly makes your heart sing? Are you chasing goals because they enchant you, or because society says so? Understanding your true desires is the first step on your journey.
- Mindfulness and Meditation Spells: Practice spells of mindfulness and meditation to stay grounded in the present. They reduce stress and boost self-awareness, leading to inner peace and contentment.
- Positive Companions: Surround yourself with a party of positive, supportive companions. Good relationships provide emotional mana and enhance your overall well-being.
- Passion Projects: Engage in hobbies and activities that bring you joy. Whether it’s crafting, adventuring, or helping others, doing what you love boosts your happiness.
- Gratitude Potion: Brew a gratitude potion by focusing on the good in your life. Keep a journal to regularly note what you’re thankful for, and watch your happiness grow.
Breaking Free from Societal Expectations
Breaking free from societal spells can be tough, but it’s crucial for true happiness. Set your own quests and define what success means to you. It’s okay to have different goals from others. Embrace your unique journey and celebrate your achievements, no matter how small they seem.
We often get caught up in trying to meet the expectations of others—parents, friends, colleagues, society at large. But your life is your own, and you have the right to live it in a way that makes you truly happy. This might mean taking a less traditional path or making choices that others don’t understand. That’s okay. What’s important is that you are true to yourself and your own happiness.
The Journey to Self-Acceptance
Self-acceptance is the treasure chest at the end of the rainbow. Accepting yourself for who you are, including your flaws and imperfections, allows you to be at peace with yourself. It's about recognizing that you are enough just as you are. This doesn't mean you shouldn't strive for personal growth, but rather, approach self-improvement from a place of love and acceptance, not criticism and dissatisfaction.
Think of self-acceptance as the foundation of a house. Without a strong foundation, the house will eventually crumble. Similarly, without self-acceptance, it’s difficult to build a happy, fulfilling life. Embrace your quirks and imperfections; they make you unique and special. Instead of striving for perfection, aim for progress and celebrate your efforts along the way.
Embracing the Present Moment
Another key to happiness is learning to live in the present moment. We often spend so much time dwelling on the past or worrying about the future that we forget to appreciate the here and now. Mindfulness practices, such as meditation 
and deep breathing, can help you stay grounded and fully engage with the present.
When you’re fully present, you can truly savour the small joys of life—a warm cup of coffee, a beautiful sunset, a heartfelt conversation with a friend. These moments may seem insignificant, but they add up to create a rich and fulfilling life. By focusing on the present, you can also reduce stress and anxiety, making it easier to find joy in everyday experiences.
The Power of Positive Thinking
Your mindset plays a significant role in your overall happiness. Cultivating a positive outlook can help you navigate life’s challenges with greater resilience and optimism. This doesn’t mean ignoring problems or pretending everything is perfect, but rather, focusing on solutions and maintaining hope even in difficult times.
Start by practising positive affirmations—simple, positive statements that you repeat to yourself to reinforce a hopeful mindset. For example, “I am capable,” “I am worthy,” or “I am grateful for today.” Over time, these affirmations can help shift your thinking patterns and boost your overall sense of well-being.
Laughter: The Best Medicine
Laughter is a powerful tool for boosting happiness. It reduces stress, increases endorphins, and fosters social connections. Make time for activities that make you laugh—whether it’s watching a comedy, spending time with funny friends, or simply finding humour in everyday situations.
Don’t take life too seriously. Embrace your playful side and allow yourself to be silly. Laughter and playfulness can help you maintain a positive outlook and remind you to enjoy the journey, not just the destination.
Acts of Kindness
Engaging in acts of kindness can significantly boost your happiness. Helping others not only makes them feel good, but it also creates a sense of connection and purpose in your own life. Whether it’s volunteering, offering a kind word, or helping a friend in need, acts of kindness can create a ripple effect of positivity.
Research shows that giving to others can enhance your own happiness and well-being. It shifts your focus away from your own worries and fosters a sense of gratitude for what you have. Plus, it feels good to make a positive impact in someone else’s life.
Personal Growth and Learning
Continuous learning and personal growth are essential for maintaining long-term happiness. Pursuing new skills and knowledge can keep your mind engaged and open new possibilities for joy and fulfilment. Whether it’s taking up a new hobby, enrolling in a class, or simply reading a book, never stop learning and growing.
Set personal goals that excite and challenge you. They don’t have to be grandiose—small, achievable goals can provide a sense of accomplishment and motivate you to keep moving forward. Celebrate your progress and use setbacks as opportunities for growth and self-discovery.
To conclude, happiness is a personal journey that starts from within. It’s about finding joy in who you are and appreciating the present moment. External achievements and material possessions provide temporary satisfaction, but true happiness comes from self-acceptance, gratitude, and inner peace. Stop chasing societal expectations and start living for yourself. Remember, happiness starts with you.
