One of my favorite blog posts, was one that I wrote last year that went viral, titled originally “Happiness StartUp: Rules To Live By.” It’s still something I read at least twice a month to remind myself of why we do the things we do, why it’s important to struggle, and why to never make your memories, greater than your dreams.
You’re going to go through tough times, that’s life. But, nothing happens to you, it happens for you. See the positive in negative events. Every disappointment. Every wrong. Even every closed door has helped make you into who you are.
To expand on that, here are some additional rules I live by:
Acceptance.
When you come to accept who you are, and the value you’re able to bring to the table, all your problems will vanish. The only two people you have to impress in life, are yourself and God. Everything else comes naturally.
Appreciate.
Learn to appreciate everything – big or small. Whether it’s a small gesture of kindness, someone holding the door for you, or an offer letter for a job you’ve dreamed about, learn to say “Thank you!” Not only does it go a long way, but also showing gratitude and appreciation will bring out a happier YOU.
Direction.
Do you have goals you’re looking to achieve? Most likely, that’s a yes. Especially, if you’re reading this. To achieve those goals, you must have direction and motivation. Look to accept the impossible. Choose ambitious goals that you’re passionate about and that itself, will provide direction. Speak of victory, never defeat.
Emotion.
If you’re emotionless, you can’t be happy. It’s impossible to bottle up all your emotions and stay content. Be happy, be sad, be thankful, be inspirational, have pride, have faith, and know that each expression only humanizes each moment you experience.
Give.
Have you ever felt an instant boost in happiness making someone else happy? When you give to others you feel instant gratitude and it makes you a healthier person. It’s becomes a part cosmic, part karmic feeling. You not only helped someone, but also have taken a step in developing a stronger connection with understanding your meaning of life.
Meaning.
When you’ve found your meaning, you’re able to feel more in control, get out of your comfort zone for the better, and you realize the endless possibilities in front of you. Your chances of anxiety, depression and stress slim away. There is a winner in you. You were created to be successful, to accomplish your goals, to leave your mark on this generation. You have greatness in you. The key is to get it out. Finding meaning is the definition of destiny. The only person you are destined to become is the person you decide to be.
Relationships.
Find people that are genuine. Authenticity is hard to find these days, but when you find those with it, hold on to them. Those are the ones that need nothing from you – outside of your presence.
A laugh with a friend, a weekend with the family, they will keep you happy and sane. A key component to happiness is to have a strong connection with those around you. They’ll always have your back. Communication – the human connection – is the key to personal and career success.
Resilience.
The faster you can bounce back, the happier you’ll be. We all experience failure, loss, stress, trauma, and get knocked down at one time or another. No matter what you’re going through, you’ve got to bounce back. Fast. Especially, when you think the odds are stacked against you. Don’t waste your energy trying to convince people to understand you. Your time is too valuable to try to prove yourself to people. If one dream dies, dream of an even bigger one.
Stay Curious.
Don’t be negative. Always start every thought, with a “What if…?” You’ll become exposed to something that maybe you love. And more importantly, curiosity can be our best friend as it can lead us into new-unchartered territories that fear wouldn’t expose us to.
If you don’t go after what you want, you’ll never have it. If you don’t ask, the answer is always no. If you don’t step forward, you’re always in the same place.
Steve Jobs said it best, “Stay Hungry, Stay Foolish.” And, it means something different for everyone. But, for me it’s always meant, “Never forget where you came from and never forget where you want to go.”
Don’t just accept whatever comes your way in life. You were born to win; you were born for greatness; you were created to be a champion in life.
Find your champion.