Wednesday, August 27, 2008

Pursuit Of Happiness: 6 Keys To Finding True Happiness

The pursuit of happiness is a fundamental aspect of human existence. We want to be happy. So why so many people unhappy? Most people likely are not happy because they have not one of the six keys of happiness.

The most important key to your personal happiness is determining that you'll be happy. For many people, their personal happiness is not a priority in their lives. Too often we put the happiness of others before our own. Although this May please our children, spouse or boss, this is not the way to happiness. This dos not mean, you have to give pleasure at the expense of others, but you must not forget that the reverse should not be true - your happiness should not be sacrificed to make other happy.

Once you've determined to make your pursuit of happiness a priority, you just need to determine what makes you happy. Spend some time to consider both happy in your life. Think of memories that make you smile or activities that make you happy. Can you find a common element or a theme? Then it is a key to find true happiness for you.

Now that you've identified what makes you happy, you need to engage in this activity. Maybe you need a creative outlet? Join a group of writing, the art of taking a class, or learn an instrument. Do you need physical activity? Then find a way to return to a sport that you love or start a new one.
All that is required is that you find a way to reconnect with this key element.

However true happiness for most of us is not dependent solely on finding that one key. For most of us, we also require special people in our lives to be happy. Perhaps you have lost touch with someone important and can reach out to them? Or perhaps it is simply a time to plan some special time with family. It is important to our own pursuit of happiness to stay connected with those we love.

Another essential to finding true happiness is to give of ourselves as well. Helping others in both small and large ways can help make you happier and more content. You might even be able to find a way to combine giving and engaging in an activity that makes you happy. For example, if you love to make people laugh you could organize a community talent show as a fundraiser for a local charity.

Finally, make a list of all the aspects of your life that do make you happy. So many of us get down because we dwell on the negative, but usually there is something about your life that makes you happy. Make a list of these items so you can have a quick mood enhancer when you feel down.

The pursuit of happiness does not have to be challenging or arduous. Finding true happiness can be as simply as determining, identifying, engaging, connecting, giving and reminding yourself of the 6 keys to personal happiness.

By Deanna Mascle

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