It can be a tough reality to accept, but our happinesses depends predominantly on our individual selves. That doesn’t mean the world around us doesn’t impact how we feel, it simply means that how we choose to accept and interpret what happens to us is directly related to our level of happiness and contentment.
When my happiness depends on me, this is what I remind myself:
Photo creds: Elizabeth Stone
Pick your battles– Not all conflicts in life are worth your time and energy to resolve. Sometimes, it’s simply easier to be the bigger person and move the group forward, disregarding what the truly correct answer may have been. So pick your battles, and be clear with yourself about what it is for you that is negotiable and what can never be compromised.
Plan ahead– One of the largest contributors to unhappiness is stress. It’s inevitable in life, but it can be minimized! Planning ahead and structuring out time for work, exercise, and activities that make you happy are all important for maintaining happiness and completely under your control.
Photo creds: Kicky
Avoid situations that give you weird vibes– It’s okay to feel uncomfortable in certain situations. But instead of blaming a situation for your unhappiness, simply avoid it. Sometimes we get caught off guard, but when we have an idea of what may happen, steer clear of everything that will make you anything but happy!
Surround yourself with happy and positive people – find your people and keep them close. They will help you grow as an individual and give you the opportunity to be happy being nothing but yourself.
Photo Creds: Amanda Holstein
Be kind, always– that is all, enough said.
Do what you enjoy– don’t waste your time doing things you don’t like. Okay, I know, so maybe studying for exams or pulling all nighters to finish a paper isn’t most people’s definition of happiness. Outside of those hours studying, spend your time doing things that make you feel like you’re not wasting away your life. Your happiness is dependent upon your decisions!
Photo creds: Still Stoked
Don’t waste time on people who don’t give a shit- don’t waste your time trying to fit into a certain crowd if it means being someone you’re not. If they don’t give a shit, don’t waste your time and happiness trying to make them. You don’t need them around.
Be confident and clear– always be confident about yourself and your choices. Being clear about what matters to you, and why, is important!
Photo Creds: Hatena Blog
Stop comparing! – stop comparing yourself to everyone and everything! You are perfect just being you, but part of being happy involves loving who you are for who you are.
Be there for others, but never forget who it is that you are as an individual – putting others before yourself is special, but your happiness begins with you! Never forget what it is that makes you who you are, and keep that dear to you.