Finding happiness

Its work that takes a lifetime but the trick is to enjoy the journey. Take a step back and observe yourself. Do you block your own happiness? We can sabotage ourselves in many ways. Even if it is only sometimes, we can think we don't deserve it or are afraid of it. This manifests in so many ways but some of the more popular manifestations are seeking attention through drama (and it's always somebody else's fault) or by staying too busy or the opposite, sinking into hermitude.

The reasons are endless and, no matter how valid, the justifications are endless and our denial is endless. We are responsible for our own happiness and by acknowledging that you take the first step.

Finding happinessis a great success in itself and I don't think that it gets enough credit. It's easy to get caught up in our modern day society that tells us clearly what success is, and unfortunately the focus is almost exclusively materially and aesthetically based. We need to appreciate what we do have and enjoy our unique journey. Take time and acknowledge your achievements. There is no achievement too small and success has an infinite number of definitions. If you try to copy somebody else's way of success or happiness you are setting an extra challenge for yourself, because we all have unique paths to walk and have different things that bring us satisfaction and joy. You and I might end up in the same place but get there in completely different ways. Trusting your instincts and deepening your relationship with yourself will lead you in the right direction. It's not a bad exercise to look at what is already working in your life and see how you achieved it. Then approach what isn't working in that same way. Also check out Creating happiness - a conversation with Sara Allen, Ph.D.