What Makes You Happy?
Wow, this is a pretty deep question.
For some, it allows the mind wander and to ponder “what is life’s true meaning."
Even during “normal” times, much less in the middle of a global pandemic.
And for others, on the surface this would seem like a simple question.
The truth is most people simply don’t know, or THINK they know the answer, but they really don’t.
So what makes you most happy?
Does traveling to new exciting places make you happy?
Many like myself share a love for travel, but others are content in staying rooted in one place.
Does spending time with loved ones make you happy?
Sure, spending time with loved ones is wonderful. And so id a sense of being part of a community.
Does learning new skills make you happy?
Does helping others make you the most happy?
Is it money? Does money make you happy?
If it’s not wealth accumulation,
It would seem obvious that your health is the most important thing, for without good health you have nothing.
But does having good health actually make you happy?
Some will appreciate having good health more than others will.
Many take their own good health for granted (which they shouldn’t).
However, studies show there is ONE THING that makes us ALL happy
Can anyone guess what that is?
Science Uncovers the Key to Happiness
Many psychological and scientific studies have been conducted over the years on what makes us happy, but there is one more recent one that stands out.
In 2005, a study was conducted in Seligman, Steen, Park, and Peterson (2005) proposed that there is one factor to sustained happiness that beats out all the rest.
Can you guess what this would be?
In One Word: Progress
Of all the attributes from studies, PROGRESS is what makes us the most happy.
Progress equals happiness. While achievements and material things can bring great pleasure for us “in the moment”, over the long-term the only thing that is going to bring you sustained happiness is progress.
Tony Robbins quoted this.
“There are levels of making it in life and whatever you think ‘making it’ is, when you get there, you’ll see there’s another level. That never ends, because if you stop growing, you’re going to be unhappy.”
On a personal level, I can say this is absolutely true…..
Even the smallest amount of progress brings me joy and fulfillment.
The Ultimate Lesson Here
In the end, as we pursue our goals, and as you accomplish even the smallest achievements listen to your inner voice and “feel” what your body tells you.
Happiness in life is a continuous string of small steps forward.
Together all of these accomplishments from the smallest to the biggest is called progress.
Learn to appreciate and become in tune with the feeling that progress brings.
Chances are you wll not even have to try, because its wired in us
Happiness is all about progress.
For the moment we stop growing, so does our happiness.
Cheers,
Kaju
Recent Comments
22
A wonderful post, Kaju. Thank you.
It is true that progress is what makes me happy. Sometimes I need to be patient and this happens when progress is slow. Only I can turn that around and the best place I've found for making that change is Wealthy Affiliate community.
Valerie
Fabulous and true comment Valerie. Patience comes with slow progress, but ANY progress can make us happier. I am glad you see this.
Kaju
I really agree with that. If things work out well because I've done them properly and I make progress, that makes me feel good. It isn't too often, though, that I am not happy -- just lucky that way, I guess. This simple lifestyle brings me happiness; so does the beautiful nature around me. Learning something new does the trick as well.
You have so much to be happy about Fran, that's wonderful. The simple things in life are the best things, and we should always be grateful for them.
Also the smallest amount of progress makes me happy, and I know I'm not alone:)
Kaju
Good point. This is why someone else can never make you happy, or be the blame for your unhappiness.
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This hit me hard because I have been unhappy for a very long time. Progress is the thing that is stumping me. I haven't achieved much anything in life and so I feel miserable. I need to change that and make something better for myself and my family. Every Man (and woman) needs a sense of purpose and feeling of being useful. I am glad to be around people who are encouraging and uplifting. Thank you
Thank You Timothy, I see you have many responsibilities nd I wish you happiness. Remember even the smallest increments of forward progress can make you happy, so do not get too industrious.
Enjoy and be grateful for what you have, and reap great satisfaction from the smaller pedestrian steps that are progress.
Kaju