Happiness is a state of mind. And unfortunately, this state of mind is temporary. In our daily struggle of survival, we end up being nowhere in the middle of this mad rat race. This mechanical, chaotic lifestyle lead us to depression, inferiority complex and loss of our own identity in order to be like someone else. In the end, we only end up being unhappy, where as, in contrary, all these while we have done everything only to be happy.
There are a plenty of ways out there to be happy. There are things that we constantly need to keep doing making them a habit and a part of our life. However the main concern is to keep doing it or even how to START doing it for that matter. It is only natural, for humans to be motivated for a week, maybe a month and eventually lose it, except for a few ‘Mutants’ who have unshakable will power.
But if we really need to be happy, the only option is to work towards it. And there are no two ways about it. Don’t you agree?
1. Accept That You Want To Be Better
Just like all correctional therapies, the first step to remaining happy is also to find out what is it that you lack? What regressive qualities do you possess? It can be anything from procrastination, envy, fear, recklessness, being self-centered, or just plain laziness.
Evaluate yourself. Ask people what is it that you should change about yourself. Observe what you don’t like in others and understand that there may be something within you that might not be appealing to others. Most people are highly aware of what is it that they lack, but are hesitant to accept it.
And trust me, the day you find out those things that may be slight, put persistent flaws in your personalities, life will become a wee bit easier. Take this first step to be happy.
2. Vipassana – Cleanse Your Mind
This is the toughest and the most crucial step you need to take. Most people do not know what Vipassana is and those who do, they are aware of the priceless gift you give yourself when ‘you do not talk for 10 days‘. Well, let me tell you one thing for sure, Not Talking is the easiest part.
When I went for my first 10-Day Course of Vipassana, I was 20. And definitely it is one of the best thing I have done in my twenties to discover myself. I can now be much more at peace with myself and be happy.
Vipassana, in Sanskrit pronounced as ”vi-pa-shya-na”, is one of the most flawless techniques used to strengthen your mind. It trains your mind to unload emotions which are deep-rooted. When you break your Vow of Silence on the 10th Day, you will walk out with a clear mind and a content soul, provided you follow the rules.
You can give yourself infinite reasons to not attend the course, but all you need is to get rid of the unnecessary excuses. You need just 3 things to attend a 10-Day course. Will Power, Time and Effort.
3. Be.Here.Now.
This will be much easier and mechanical once you complete a 10-Day Vipassana Course. What Vipassana does is, it cleanses out your mind and makes it faster. Think of it as a clean-up app for your phone or computer. Live in the present. Focus on the task at hand, even if it’s as simple as eating or bathing. Keep your mind and your body synchronized. Being happy is all about staying connected to the NOW.
4. Karma Always Works. Always!
Give Good, Get Good. Karma is the one thing that Every Body, except for religious extremists, believes in. And it undoubtedly is true. Do as many good things as you want and fear doing bad things to others. Fear it as you might fear hell. And when you do good, keep your mental volition crystal clear. Don’t do it just because you want it to come back to you, but also because it will make the life of another easier.
5. Exercise
When I say exercise, I don’t mean go crazy and become a bodybuilder. You should either workout at home, join a gym, do yoga or enroll for a dance class. DO anything that keeps your body moving at least for an hour. This lets out the built-up energies and enriches your mind on daily basis.
6. Nothing Is Permanent
Remind yourself, just like the seasons, nothing in your life is permanent. Everything is constantly changing. Your sadness is not going to last for long and neither is your happiness. Find a mid-path and stick to it. This also is one of the things that become much easier once you do Vipassana.
7. Have An Outlet. Be Happy.
Either you have that one thing that always relieves stress or keep trying out different things that work as an outlet. Avoid using Intoxication as it does more harm than good. Instead of letting things out, it pushes it deeper into your mind and makes it all the more difficult to get rid off. Also avoid materialistic therapies like shopping, spending. Do productive things. Maybe volunteer for an NGO, put up a stall in an event, anything that makes you happy.
My personal outlet is Bharatnatyam, a form of Indian classical dance I have been practicing since I was 8. I also love to try out new things, meet new people, and explore the unexplored to keep my adrenaline pumped up.
8. Love & Kindness
Love with all you have and be kind to those who cannot give you anything. Kindness is as effective as love. If you are well equipped with sacks full of love & kindness, you are SORTED for life. Not only does it give you good karma but also purifies your soul in ways you cannot imagine. The one secret to being happy is to be always kind to others.
And remember, the only way to live life is in absolute happiness.