For years, I lived with the belief that happiness was just around the corner.
I thought, “I’ll be happy when I land my dream job. I’ll feel fulfilled when I earn more money. I’ll finally relax when life is less chaotic.” But each milestone I reached brought a fleeting sense of satisfaction, quickly followed by the nagging feeling that something was still missing.
Does this sound familiar? If so, you’re not alone.
Many of us are conditioned to believe that happiness is tied to external achievements or circumstances. But chasing happiness this way is like trying to catch the wind—it’s always just out of reach.
A Lesson in Joy
One afternoon, I met someone who helped me see things differently. She didn’t have a high-paying job or an impressive resume, yet her joy was undeniable. She radiated happiness in a way I hadn’t seen before.
Curious, I asked her, “What’s your secret?”
She smiled and said something simple yet profound:
“I stopped waiting for happiness to find me. I decided to create it myself.”
Her words stuck with me. In that moment, I realized I’d been outsourcing my joy to things outside my control—career milestones, financial goals, and even other people’s approval.
The Shift That Changed Everything
From that day forward, I made a conscious decision to stop relying on external factors for happiness. Instead, I turned inward and started focusing on what I could control: my mindset, my habits, and my relationship with myself.
Here’s what worked for me:
😊 Gratitude Practice:
I began ending each day by listing three things I was grateful for. They didn’t have to be big—sometimes it was as simple as a sunny morning or a kind smile from a stranger.
😊 Mindful Moments:
I started savoring the small joys in life, like the smell of coffee brewing or the sound of birds outside my window.
😊 Self-Compassion:
I stopped judging myself for not being “perfect” and started celebrating my progress, no matter how small.
Bit by bit, I noticed a shift. Happiness wasn’t something I had to chase anymore—it was something I created in the present moment.
The Truth About Happiness
Happiness isn’t hiding in your next big promotion, a dream vacation, or a perfect relationship. Those things can enhance your life, but they won’t bring lasting joy if you don’t already have it within you.
Real happiness is about how you choose to see the world and what you prioritize in your life. It’s about being present, embracing imperfection, and finding beauty in the ordinary.
How You Can Start Today
If you’re ready to create your happiness, try this:
Pause and take a deep breath. Reflect on one thing in your life that brings you joy right now.
Act on something that makes you feel good, whether it’s calling a friend, taking a walk, or dancing to your favorite song.
Appreciate yourself for taking a step toward owning your happiness.
Happiness is yours to create—it’s already within you.
What’s one small way you can choose joy today? I’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments below.
If you resonate with this blog and you are committed to making change, however, you do not want to go it alone, take comfort in knowing I can support you, inspire you, and celebrate you as we take this journey together, visit my website to learn more.
Until next time remember my favourite quote - "Your Smile 😎 Your Responsibility - own it, Wear it, Share it"
