One can find a plethora of quotes on the subject of happiness, from philosophers and writers to superstars or saints. Happiness seems the most universally sought commodity worldwide. Perhaps my interest in this topic of late is a result of the holidays, or perhaps it stems from spending too much time marketing my novels recently and not enough writing the next one, but I find my philosophical side coming to the forefront as I look toward the new year.
We usually know happiness when we experience it, or when we think we see it displayed through the windows of our neighbors’ lives. Certainly a startling number of people covet the perceived happiness of others. Yet if happiness is to be gained, the path lies not before the brunette with the rich husband but before our own two feet. The road to happiness doesn’t require a pair of Louboutin heels to forge the way. This path can be walked by even the most well-worn soles.
To find that path, here are three rules to live by:
1. Do what you love.
If you’re not doing what you love and loving what you’re doing, ask yourself, “Why?” Who is stopping you from your dream of writing, from making that trip to places exotic and wonderful, from having a family or jumping into a new career? […]
2. Happiness lies within.
What does this mean? It means it begins with our deciding to see the glass half-full. All the happiness we ever find lies within ourselves, within our choices and our truths; in living life to the fullest extent; in appreciating what we are given and giving generously in return. […]
3. Don’t seek happiness. Seek the mountain. Happiness will join you along the way.
One of the best definitions of happiness I’ve found describes happiness as”the overcoming of not unknowable obstacles toward a known goal.” Reading that carefully, we find that happiness isn’t necessarily gained in the goal itself, but rather in striving toward the goal—in the playing of the game. As soon as the game is won, well, it’s necessary to find a new game or face a quick degradation into withering stagnation and boredom. […]