The Elements of Happiness

Happiness and joy cannot be achieved only by reaching societal goals. There are many unhappy people living in large houses with fancy cars in the double garage. While having enough money and material comforts can certainly contribute to a greater sense of well-being and contentment, they rarely create happiness on their own. True joy and serenity are usually the result of less tangible factors, such as a sense of Purpose and Self-Confidence.

A seemingly aimless existence often leads to an increased sense of emptiness and dissatisfaction in all areas of your life. On the other hand, when you believe that your life has Purpose and meaning, you will experience greater focus, vitality and happiness. Your Purpose in life doesn’t always mean becoming a nun or missionary; you can find purpose in any kind of calling. Make it your purpose to have a fulfilling career in any field, or set a benchmark of achievement for your children to exceed someday. Choose a cause that is important to you and devote your life to supporting it. Ultimately it doesn’t matter what purpose you choose for your life; just that it’s important to you.

True happiness and contentment must be accompanied by genuine self-love and confidence. When you truly love and respect yourself, you feel more in control of your life, which cannot help but make you feel happier too. You get along better with others, you feel stronger and more balanced, and you don’t tend to take challenges so personally. Not only are you better able to stand up for yourself and avoid being taken advantage of, confidence also helps you to believe in yourself and your capabilities. Rather than seeking love and acceptance from others, give it to yourself. Speak kindly to yourself and build yourself up as often as you can. The more you do, the happier you’ll feel.

There are other factors that contribute to greater happiness, but these are probably the most influential. Simply by sustaining these qualities in yourself and your life, you’ll begin to guide yourself to a fulfilling and empowering existence.