It can be tricky to achieve happiness as a permanent state. However, finding happiness within oneself is definitely achievable, even if it’s not always plain sailing. Just like with most things in life, finding inner happiness takes a bit of practice.
Are you ready to knuckle down and focus on achieving inner happiness? Let’s explore some ways you can make it happen!
Why is it so important to focus on achieving inner happiness?
Well, the reality is that our culture puts a strong emphasis on finding happiness in other people, external events, and possessions.
You might be bombarded with adverts that seem to promise perfect bliss, telling you to plan the dream wedding, buy the ideal handbag, or dress impeccably. But the truth is, inner happiness can be found within yourself, regardless of what the world around you might be telling you.
Ultimately, rather than chasing after someone or something else to bring you inner happiness, you might discover that true happiness lies within – the only place you really have control over.
Finding happiness within yourself has the power to completely transform your worldview. Inner peace, the kind that comes with happiness, can equip you to appreciate life more, regardless of whether you have the latest tech.
Discovering inner happiness brings a wealth of benefits to your well-being. This journey can not only improve your emotional state but also your financial situation, as you may find yourself less susceptible to impulse purchases.
8 Strategies To Finding Inner Happiness
While widespread happiness would likely make the world a better place, it’s not always straightforward to find.
The good news is that you absolutely can find happiness within yourself. It might take some time, but you can gradually shift your perspective towards a happier one.
As you embark on your journey to inner happiness, consider implementing these strategies:
1. Practice Self-Compassion
First and foremost, it’s crucial to make a conscious effort to treat yourself with kindness. This might not be your usual way of thinking, if you’re anything like me. Unfortunately, it’s all too easy to be constantly critical of oneself. You might be far harsher on yourself than you deserve, whether that’s true or not.
Being kind to yourself is a key element of boosting inner happiness. Even in your internal monologue, avoid saying anything hurtful. Imagine you’re talking to a close friend – you wouldn’t speak to them harshly, would you?
Grant yourself some downtime when you need it. Reframe any negative thoughts that might creep in.
2. Prioritise Your Physical Wellbeing
It’s simply easier to feel happy when your body feels good. After all, taking on the world is a breeze when you feel confident in your own skin. Regular exercise and a healthy diet are two of the cornerstones of looking after yourself physically.
Start small if you’re not already looking after your body.
For example, you could take a lunchtime stroll around the block, or swap your usual fast-food dinner for a pre-prepared supermarket salad. Small changes can make a big difference.
3. Ditch the Social Media
Research suggests that social media use can have a negative impact on mental health. It’s also easy to see how social media might drain your inner happiness. Scrolling through endless feeds of people seemingly living their best lives on whichever platform you favour can be a recipe for discontent.
Naturally, their social media persona might not be a perfectly accurate reflection of their real life. However, that side of things tends not to be shared for public consumption.
If at all possible, try to cut back on your social media usage. If you enjoy a good challenge, consider a social media detox.
4. Organise Your Space to Discover Personal Fulfilment
The state of your home can have a big impact on your mental health. It’s easy to feel overwhelmed if you’re constantly surrounded by clutter. There’s nothing quite like the satisfaction of sitting down in a clean house, in my opinion.
5. Make Time for Exploration
If you’re feeling a bit lost about how to spark joy in your life, it’s time to carve out some space for self-discovery. This might come easily to some, but for others, figuring out what truly brings them happiness can be a right old journey of self-exploration.
Dedicate some decent time to exploring life’s simple pleasures and chasing after a sense of inner happiness. If a spark of happiness appears along the way, follow it wherever it leads you.
6. Start Keeping a Journal
It’s perfectly normal to have a bit of a jumbled mind, even if it doesn’t set you up for the most blissful existence. For me at least, it’s often hard to truly understand how I’m feeling about something until I get it down on paper.
The reason for this is that writing things down helps to sort through the mess of ideas in my head.
When you write in a notebook, you can follow your thoughts wherever they take you. There’s a chance you might find journaling to be a therapeutic activity that lifts your spirits on occasion. Don’t be afraid to let your thoughts wander freely in your journal.
7. Be Grateful for What You Have
It’s easy to get stuck comparing yourself to someone who seems miles ahead in life. But trust me, counting up other people’s possessions with envy won’t bring you happiness. In fact, comparing yourself to others is a surefire way to breed resentment and discontent.
One way to cultivate more happiness in your life is to practise gratitude. Your friends, family, safety, and health are all blessings to be thankful for.
If you can, try to make a habit of counting your blessings each day, reminding yourself of all the reasons you have to be cheerful.
8. Make Progress on Your Goals
Setting goals can help you visualise where you want your life to head. Having the right goals in place can motivate you to push yourself towards what you desire.
However, grand aspirations can sometimes feel overwhelming. Goals that seem too much to handle could leave you feeling disheartened rather than happy.
Break down your goals into smaller, more manageable steps if at all possible. For example, if your goal is to save £1,000, start by trying to save £10 this week. Even a small step in the right direction can make a big difference to your happiness.
It is possible to cultivate happiness from within, but it does take a bit of time and effort!
Finding inner happiness might be a journey, but with the right approach, you can definitely reach that happy place. Remember to be kind to yourself along the way. Every positive decision you make and every moment of gratitude brings you closer to happiness.