How do you do Happy? Yup that’s right I said DO!
You see whether you realise it or not Happiness is a verb, its something you do, BUT the average person is running around on auto pilot doing their life unconsciously, so they have no idea what makes them happy, they just know when they are not.
The intention of this blog is to show that you have the power to be 100% in control of your happiness and then give you the tools for how to make that happen, so if that sounds good, carry on.
First let’s have a look at your current happiness rules. All this means is that to the best of your ability I want you to have a think about what needs to happen for you to be happy.
Stop right now, take a few breaths and ponder this question.
What are your happiness rules?
Are they realistic or ridiculous. Are they things that are in your control? Are they serving you or are they getting in the way? Could they in fact be stopping you from achieving the happiness you desire and deserve?
While setting rules to determine happiness can provide a helpful framework, you should also recognize the potential pitfalls that could hinder your growth and fulfillment. Let’s looks at your Rules for Happiness so that you can keep the ones that serve you in living your happiest life and you can abandon those that do not.
Why do we need rules for Happiness?
They provide Clarity and Direction: Setting rules can provide us with a clear direction in our pursuit of happiness and provide us with an effective tool for keeping score. When we establish core principles and values, we create a foundation on which to build a fulfilling life.
They can provide Empowerment and Accountability: Your rules can empower you to take control of your own happiness. Acknowledging that your happiness is within your control, you become accountable for your actions and choices.
They create Boundaries and Balance: Your rules can help you to define boundaries and find a healthy balance between work, relationships, and self-care. Your boundaries allow you to prioritize what truly matters and prevent burnout.
They provide Resilience and Adaptability: Having a set of guiding principles can strengthen your resilience so you can bounce back from setbacks and challenges. Adaptability is a key asset in your journey towards happiness.
I have noticed people often create rules for happiness that are near impossible to achieve and or are completely inflexible and that’s why its important to do a bit of an audit to ensure your rules/outcomes are in your control and are serving you on your ultimate happiness mission.
Let' do an audit of your happiness rules
Do your rules lead to Rigidity and Perfectionism? One of the most significant dangers of rigid happiness rules is falling into the trap of perfectionism. If we demand adherence to strict standards, any deviation can lead to disappointment and self-criticism.
Do your rules encourage Comparisons and Social Pressure? Happiness rules can inadvertently fuel comparisons with others. When we believe there's a universal formula for happiness, we may feel inadequate when we don't measure up to others' apparent happiness.
Do they create Blind Spots and Tunnel Vision: Strict rules may create blind spots, preventing us from recognizing opportunities for growth and happiness beyond our predetermined boundaries.
Do they lead to Loss of Authenticity: Trying to fit our lives into a rigid set of rules may lead to suppressing our true selves and passions, ultimately robbing us of genuine happiness.
Are your happiness rules within your control? If your happiness is dependent on how someone else behaves or perhaps whether it is sunny you are setting yourself up for failure.
So, what should you avoid When Creating or Using Happiness Rules?
Try to Avoid One-Size-Fits-All Solutions: Recognize that happiness is a personal journey, and what brings joy to one person may not resonate with another. Embrace the uniqueness of your path.
Don't Set Unrealistic Expectations: Avoid demanding constant happiness or thinking that you must be happy all the time. Emotions are diverse and dynamic, and experiencing a range of feelings is natural and healthy and its important to learn how to ride all the waves of emotion. There are none that are good or bad.
Don't Ignore Mental and Emotional Health: Don't use your happiness rules to avoid addressing deeper emotional issues. Seek support when you need it and prioritize mental well-being as an essential component of happiness.
Avoid Neglecting the Present: While setting goals and aspirations is crucial, don't forget to find joy in the present moment. Happiness often resides in the journey rather than the destination.
Rules of Happiness can be a valuable in shaping a fulfilling and meaningful life. Setting guidelines and principles, help us to gain clarity and direction. Nevertheless, these rules need to be applied with intelligence avoiding rigidity, comparisons, and loss of authenticity. When we embrace the dynamic nature of happiness and recognize that it evolves as we grow and change, when we let go of unrealistic expectations and find balance embracing all emotions and staying open to life's surprises then we can truly say we are on the path to happiness. Happiness lies not in a rigid set of rules, but in our ability to adapt, learn, and find contentment in the journey itself.
If you want to live life HappyAF, get clarity on what is matters to you, and do your best to live your life everyday working towards that. No days off just constant and never-ending progress.
Watch my video What are your Happiness Rules.
If you would like more information or a confidential chat, reach out on info@happyuhq.com.au
Love Light and Happiness
Sam
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