Are you happy? A recent poll taken by the University of Chicago shows only 14% of us are. Really, that’s a staggeringly low number, even given the events transpiring over the past couple of years.
So, what’s going on? Surveys fluctuate, but most dating back as far as 1972 report figures no higher than 30%.
Below are some of the common reasons for unhappiness.
- Replacing connection with material items
- Comparing ourselves to others
- Blame, negativity, and fixed mindset
- Perfectionism
- Dwelling on the past or future
How to Be Happy
Happiness starts with you! Here are some tips to help increase your satisfaction with life.
Don’t be a slave to extravagance.
They say that money can’t buy happiness, and it’s true. Studies show that extra cash doesn’t equate to increased satisfaction in life after we have the money to meet our basic needs.
Simply put, you can’t fill the void inside of you with stuff. And when you put “things” in place of people, it only adds to unhappiness.
Be authentic.
People are going to judge you no matter what. Life’s too short to be anything other than you! When you bring anything other than your authentic self to interactions, you miss out on meaningful connections and spend your life hustling to prove your worth.
Be accountable.
Take ownership of who you are, your decisions, and your life. Mistakes are inevitable on the path to growth. When you discharge blame, it fractures your relationships and prevents you from taking in the lessons needed to develop into a better version of yourself.
Strive for excellence, not perfection.
No one’s perfect! When you get lost in the details, you lose sight of the big picture. Do your best each day, but don’t get trapped in trying to reach perfection—It’s a goal that you’ll never obtain.
Stay in the present.
When you ruminate on the past, you can easily find yourself in depression. And when you fixate on the future? It leads to anxiety. But most importantly, living in either will result in missing out on the current moment.
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