Material possessions alone do not lead to happiness. Learning to live life happily in spite of the challenges is what counts. Each one of us wants to be happy. We may pursue happiness in our own different ways.
Your idea of what makes you happy could be different from what makes me happy, yet the idea that we all want to be happy is a common thread in our lives that connects all of us together. This common thread in our experience of the world brings forth the possibility for us to learn from each other.
Art of Happiness
Learning the Art of Happiness
Since the year 2013, the United Nations has started celebrating the International Day of Happiness on March 20th, recognizing the importance of Happiness around the world. They also publish an annual report on Happiness.
Before we embark on the journey we have to understand that life is dynamic in nature and individual circumstances are varied and situations for a person can be very challenging. However, like “seeking happiness”, there are some common personality traits that we as humans have which make our learning shareable to that extent.
When it comes to learning the art of being happy, we can learn from,
- Our own experiences in life,
- Other’s experiences, and
- Reflection on happiness knowledge
Individual Uniqueness
Unlike the animal world, human beings are more complex beings. Although physically we are very similar, our mindsets are unique. We can learn from each other, but it is up to an individual to figure out what is best and be able to do it.
Learning to be Happier
There are no quick fixes. If one is ready to learn, then the quality of life can improve and one can move towards a life of self-growth and excellence.
With self-growth one becomes better equipped to handle the varied type of challenges at the level of physical fitness, emotional peace, Intellectual clarity, and skills required for work and play.
Material possessions alone will not lead to happiness hence one has to focus on personal growth which is the way to being happier.
“DEVELOP A PASSION FOR LEARNING. IF YOU DO, YOU WILL NEVER CEASE TO GROW.”
Anthony D’Angelo
Challenges to our Pursuit of Happiness
We look at the complex nature of the challenges in terms of our uniqueness yet some common aspects in terms of physical, emotional, intellectual, spiritual, and skills needed to interact in the world around us.
1. Physical Challenges
Another challenge that we face is how to maintain our physical fitness and health.
- How do I lose/gain weight?
- How do I improve strength/stamina?
2. Emotional Challenges
One of the common challenges we face is dealing with our feelings and emotions. Our emotions can energize us or pull us down.
- How should I deal with challenges in my relationships?
- How can I maintain my mental peace?
3. Intellectual Challenges
Despite years of formal and informal education, we often do not realize how much happier we could be if we are clearer in our thinking.
- What should I do to be happier?
- Why is happiness so short-lived?
- Why I am doing what I am doing?
4. Spiritual Challenges
Religions trying to promote their ideology sometimes unintentionally tend to divide the people of the world. However, at the core, we are humans and spiritual in nature.
- Why can’t I be happy all the time?
- What is the purpose of my life?
- How can I understand my spiritual nature?
5. Need for Skills
- How do I learn what needs to be learned?
- How can I be effective on a sustainable basis?
In this rapidly changing 21st-century lifestyle, we need to adapt rapidly; learn new skills, or re-skill ourselves so that we can be relevant and continue to contribute.
Happiness Related Articles
25 Happiness Tips from Bhagavad Gita, the Manual for Life
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Personal Growth – 5 Pillars for Success in Pursuit of Happiness
12 Keys to Happiness or Habits for Happiness
