When our ancestors were focused on hunting and gathering, they were not concerned about finding fulfillment in life. Their purpose was to keep themselves and their loved ones alive by securing a safe place to live and finding enough food on which to survive. Today’s culture, however, has prompted Americans to look beyond basic survival strategies and start thinking about how to enjoy their lives to the fullest. This quest for happiness has led to many books, seminars and
counseling sessions that are designed to help people find joy in living.
Why Search for Happiness?
Research has indicated that happiness is beneficial for many reasons. The chemicals that are released when happiness is felt may result in an increase in financial earnings, a higher level of creativity and a stronger immune system. Happiness is not just a feeling. While it is an emotion, happiness can have a powerful effect on the body. A burst of joy lasts longer than the effects of dopamine, and it can affect how you make everyday choices and decisions. If you want to become a happier person, you need to adjust your perspective about the things that you experience daily.
Taking Risks
Happy people often take measured risks. They are not
afraid to try something new or different, and they accept the fact that they may not like the outcome. They may feel a small amount of anxiety over their decision, but they also know that their willingness to step outside of their comfort zone will lead them to grow and develop as a person. As you pursue happiness, use your sense of curiosity about the unknown to encourage you to explore
and extend your horizons. However, you should also allow yourself to enjoy familiar pleasures so that you have a healthy balance.
Finding Joy in Others’ Fortunes
Happy people do not dwell on what they don’t have or what they wish they had, and this lack of jealousy allows them to find joy in their friends’ successes and victories. By sharing these celebrations with others, you can strengthen your relationships so that you also benefit when you have good news to share with your friends and family.
While finding happiness is important and beneficial, it should not be the ultimate goal in life. Studies show that people who experience extensive bursts of pleasure may not appreciate the smaller joys that they encounter. To truly benefit from happiness, you must work toward a purpose in life while enjoying the process that it takes to achieve your goals.
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