Do you ask your self "why can't I just be happy"?

Happiness has different meanings for different people, different cultures and different spiritual belief systems. For example, Buddhism teaches that “ultimate happiness is only achieved by overcoming craving in all forms”, while many western beliefs connect happiness with family, career achievements and financial gain.

When reviewing this topic of happiness, it can become complex and create many more questions than answers. So, in today’s chaotic world, do we feel that it is our right to be happy, or do we have to work at it day by day?

In my research, I believe that if we break this down into two simple areas, happiness can become more attainable in everyday life. However, it is a daily choice to create this for ourselves:

• Feeling more positive emotions than negative.
• Feeling content with your life.

As Mahatma Gandhi said, “Happiness is when what you think, what you say, and what you do are in harmony.”

So, how do we create these positive emotions and contentment?

Stop letting negative thoughts take over

Strengthen the mind to prevent negative thoughts from overwhelming emotions like a tidal wave of pain. If you can become aware of the negative phrases you use with yourself and replace them with more positive ones, then with practice, you may start to believe them.

Stop the “I should haves”

“I should have done this better” or “I should have prevented this”. Learn from each experience.

As Maya Angelou, the acclaimed American poet, storyteller and activist, said, “When you know better, you do better.”

Stop placing expectations on life

Expectations can interrupt our peace and happiness. As William Shakespeare said, “Expectation is the root of all heartache.”

Start taking a few minutes for yourself when you need it

Make yourself the one you look after. Cherish who you are and allow yourself just to be in the moment.

Start letting go of painful negative thoughts

However challenging this may be, negative thoughts often create dissatisfaction, rather than peace and contentment. Indulge in the art of gratitude. Compile a list of what you are grateful for each day, however small, and reflect on those tender things.

Start simplifying your life

Don’t let a huge list of jobs control your life. You can only achieve one thing at a time. Concentrate and give your full attention to the most important thing of the day. Be in the moment.

Start looking after your body and mind

Eat healthily and exercise. Support your physical body to function at its best, and do the same with your inner self. Meditate, laugh, enjoy nature and notice the wonders of your life.

If you would like to find happiness or become more content with your life, focus your awareness around the points above. Understanding what triggers these behaviours will enable you to question how you can change these habits