Ancient wisdom: Happiness strategy

In a recent survey that covered 10,000 participants from 48 countries, people rated happiness as being more important than having meaning in life, becoming rich or getting into heaven. Everyone wants to be happy, but does not know what will really make them happy. The usual suspects are wealth, fame and possessions. Very often they spend their whole life chasing such illusions like the golden deer in the epics.

Research says happiness is good for you, leading to many benefits — higher earning, better immune system functioning and higher levels of creativity. Happiness is a state of mind, which can be intentional and strategic. Surprising facts emerged in the survey as well. Activities that made us feel uncertainty, discomfort and even a little guilt are memorable experiences. Doing something new and different every day can therefore help you feel happier. Risk has definite rewards. Innovation can give you a jolt of bliss. On the other hand, remaining strictly within your comfort zone can bore you to death.

Happiness seems to include adventure and chances for personal growth. Curiosity may have killed the cat, but it could certainly increase your levels of satisfaction. Exploring new areas in life, which initially make you uncomfortable, can build a bridge to happiness in the long run.

All of us know what makes us feel good. We can choose this most of the time and plan our daily ‘happiness breaks’. But occasionally, do reach out for an experience that is new, complicated and at times, even upsetting. 

Be generous with affirmations and celebrate the achievements of others. Thank God, family and friends for all the blessings you enjoy. The best strategy for happiness is surely making others happy.
The writer is the author of Everyday Happiness Mantras