A Guide to Happiness

What is happiness? The dictionary defines it as “the quality or state of being happy”. But are being happy and having happiness really the same thing? You could be happy that you got what you wanted for Christmas, but will this bring you happiness? Happiness is generally a lot deeper and more meaningful than just being happy. Happiness is a long term state of being content with what you have and what you have done.

There is no clear cut way to achieve happiness, but many things can help.

• Volunteer Work- People always tell you that giving is better recieving, but it really is. Getting involved in volunteer work in your community gives you a sense of satisfaction. Helping others less fortunate than you can make you realize how fortunate you are, which will add to your state of happiness. It can also help you to make good friends!
• Spend more time with family and friends….. Spending more time with family and friends can give you a sense of belonging which is what many people need in order to achieve happiness. Have family party or invite some friends over and start up some good conversations.
• But don’t forget about yourself.  A little bit of me-time each day gives you a chance to think about things and do things that you enjoy to do by yourself. Play a game, take a nap, or just sit and meditate like the Buddhists who’s goal in life is reach Nirvana, or ultimate happiness, by giving up selfish desires.
• Be productive…..Do something worthwhile often. Read a book, practice an instrument, or exercise. All these can contribute to happiness because you can improve in all of them through your own hard work, not something given to you.
• But don’t be afraid to waste time.  Sometimes a day to just sit around is what someone needs to feel better. Watch some old movies, play a nerdy video game, or just hang out. Like Betrand Russel said, “Time you enjoy wasting is not wasted time”.

The truth is that there is no actual “guide to happiness”. Happiness won’t find you, you have to go find it. And sometimes you’ll find it hiding in the strangest places.