I came across a blog post recently that was all about how we sabotage our own happiness. For instance, something that makes me happy right now is that it’s summer. Yippee! I know one thing right off the bat that might sabotage that happiness – a complaint that it’s too hot. I implore you, don’t do it. Enjoy the few short weeks of heat that we have here in our lovely province. After all, it will be over too soon and then we’ll be complaining about the cold.
Below are other things that often sabotage our happiness, with a bit of encouragement on turning that around.
Not taking action – many people complain that they don’t achieve what they want, yet they don’t take any action towards achieving that goal or dream. Write down what you want and take even a small baby step towards it every day or week.
Stuff piling up – there is nothing more depressing than piles of “stuff” all over your home. Having clear surfaces and less stuff feels good and opens up space in your life for good things to happen.
Living in the future or in the past – I’ve written before about living in the present. In 2018 my goal was to stay present and have more fun. Practicing staying present instead of wishing I had done something different in the past, or worrying about the future, was a very powerful practice. It takes work to develop that skill, but it is so worthwhile.
Not knowing how to say “No” – many of us push ourselves physically and mentally at work and in our personal life. Sometimes there is nothing you can do about it but being aware that you do have the option to say no to certain things may make you feel more in control and a little less overwhelmed.
Spending money on things you don’t need – most of us work very hard for our money and spending it on stuff we don’t really need doesn’t usually bring lasting happiness. It often brings short-term happiness because it’s pretty or because a friend has it, so we have to have it. However, much of that stuff gets shoved away somewhere and then becomes too much stuff. Be careful how you spend your hard-earned money. Consider saving it for an experience that will bring you lasting happiness.
I know that we can’t be happy all the time, but we certainly can be happy some of the time or most of the time if we work at it. Go forth . . . be happy! Have an awesome summer and let me know how happiness appears in your life.
A good happiness reminder, Jane. I met artist Kate Church in Lunenburg recently. We connected immediately on the subject of living joyfully in the moment and she gave me a bumper sticker. ‘Don’t Postpone Joy’. It’s on my car and reminds me everyday to take actions that bring happiness.
I love the bumper sticker Deborah!