Happiness is something that we all strive to achieve.
As human beings I think we can all accept the facts that: (a) life is short and busy, and also that (b) unhappiness makes our lives difficult. We all know that our habits have a big impact on the quality of life that we live; and more specifically that these habits directly impact our happiness or lack thereof!! (Just to make a clear distinction, there is a strong difference between clinical depression and chronic unhappiness. Depression is a chemical imbalance in the brain, while unhappiness is a disposition that is often acquired through how we choose to live our lives).
Below we share with you 5 habits that can make you unhappy – all of which can be avoided:
1. CHRONIC COMPLAINING
Happy and successful people do not complain much. On the other side, it seems that chronic complainers always have something negative to say… even when those around them are happy! The bottom line: we all have different circumstances that we are given in this lifetime, but in the end these circumstances are ours – fair or unfair, wanted or unwanted. Instead of complaining, which leads to nowhere, seek solutions to problems!
2. NEGATIVE ADDICTIONS
Most things are good in moderation – food, a drink or two, entertainment… it’s when these things take center stage in our lives that it becomes a problem. Unfortunately, many good people have met their end through addictive habits, especially through dependence on alcohol and drugs. A great preventative measure and remedy to these addictions is finding and living our passions to the greatest extent possible.
3. REGRETTING THE PAST
Regret is not only useless, it can be extremely harmful. Research continues to show that repetitive, negative thoughts about decisions made in the past in often a precursor to chronic stress and depression. According to Psychology Today, there are four ways to cope with regret: (1) learn from mistakes but don’t dwell, (2) if nothing can be changed about the situation to let it go, (3) make sure too much blame is not being undertaken, and(4) re-frame the situation more positively.
4. WORRYING ABOUT THE FUTURE
We only have so much say in what our future holds. This is not meant to dis-empower (quite the opposite); rather it is stating simple truth. What we can do is live in the present while fully exercising our abilities and talents, enabling and empowering us to live a happier existence. There’s that phrase you hear us share so often with you: living in the present. Face difficulties as they arise and let them go. Enjoy the positive things in life and experience them fully here and now …stay present.
5. BEING DRIVEN BY FEAR
Yes, fear can be an enabler to negativity and unhappiness. To fully understand this, we have to again go back to being present. Quite simply, we can’t allow fear of the unknown (and/or the unavoidable) to cripple our quality of life. Fear is a very negative thought process that is often on auto pilot. Remember: our negative thoughts and not our reality. We are not fear, worry, anxiety, or any other negative thought process. Focus on the here and now. Attract happy.
“Most folks are about as happy as they make up their minds to be.” Abraham Lincoln
As you become more aware of these habits and how they can affect your happiness (or lack of it), you can try to avoid them. I know I will. Check out our new website for more on happiness: M Y L B
(www.makingyourlifebetter.co.uk)
