The Pursuit of Happiness

I facilitated a workshop on happiness today, and began thinking about the comparison between setting goals and happiness.  I’m sure you’ve heard the phrase, “the pursuit of happiness?”  To me, that phrase conjures up images of walking down a long, endless path, looking for something that will never be found.  What does it mean to you?

Happiness is not something that can be found under a rock, in a store or by winning a lot of money.  I once heard that a pay increase at work only brings personal satisfaction for an average of 19 days.  I believe that to be true because the typical 9 to 5 job only offers pay increases once, maybe twice a year, and they are usually so minimal that it doesn’t balance out the current economy.  Once the realization of the impact of the pay raise is clear, it is no longer satisfying. Hence, the modern movement toward entrepreneurship; there is a sense of accomplishment, achievement and happiness that comes from creating your own wealth.  What are your thoughts?

Happiness comes from within – from empowerment.  Empowering yourself means that you are allowing or permitting yourself to be happy.  It’s a conscious decision to be that way.  Yes, there are factors in life that contribute to unhappiness – life changing events and personal influences – but isn’t it true that people can ultimately choose to be happy?

Happiness also comes from finding your purpose and setting goals. You can experience happiness by taking part in activities that are in direct alignment with your purpose and goals.  What can you do to make this happen?

Success in life is also a conscious decision.  We can either accept the way things are, or do something about it to make changes.  The same goes with happiness.  You can stay in your doom and gloom, or you can step up to the plate and make changes in your life.  If the latter is the case, then Hurray! I applaud you for taking the next step.

My challenge to you is to create happiness in your life.  What is it that makes you happy? For what are you thankful?  What brings you peace? And, what can you do to make changes in your life to be happy?  Daily gratitude is a wonderful habit in which to cultivating happiness. Turn those negative thoughts into positive ones, as I described in my e-book, “POWERDRIVE to Success: 10 Keys to Getting What You Want Out of Life.”

I invite you to leave your comments.  I would love to hear about your happiness adventures!

Warm regards,

Kay L. Fontana, C..C., M.A.Ed.
“The Grandcoach”

P.S.  Check out “Don’t Worry, Be Happy“  blog post by The Grandcoach