I've been always deeply intrigued by the concept of happiness. Whether it's in the workplace or personal life, understanding the dynamics of happiness has been a key pursuit.
Happiness is rooted in the present
One of the most impactful lessons I've learned came from Mo Gawdat on Steven Bartlett's podcast, "The Diary of a CEO." Gawdat emphasizes that most negative emotions are anchored in the past or future, whereas happiness is rooted in the present. This perspective aligns with my belief that happiness is always present in our lives; it's a matter of connecting to it and allowing it to flow through us. This resonated with me; we often overlook that happiness exists in our lives right now, waiting for us to connect with it.
You cannot make anyone happy
In one of my past roles as a marketing manager, my supervisor then and my dear friend today, told me: "Kristel, you cannot make everyone happy. Focus on being satisfied with the outcome yourself, and let go of trying to please everyone." This realization freed me from the burden of pleasing everyone and allowed me to find satisfaction in my own decisions. This understanding extends to our thoughts and their impact on our happiness. The brain responds to our mental commands just as it does to physical ones. If we tell ourselves we're unworthy, we feel it. However, if we challenge these thoughts, question their truth, and choose positivity, we can change our emotional state. That's why I avoid negative inputs like distressing news, especially before bedtime, opting instead for something light or humorous to nurture a positive mindset.
Train your brain to bounce back happiness
Understanding that unhappiness is part of our survival mechanism has been crucial. It's not about never feeling unhappy but about how quickly we can return to a state of contentment. This is where neuroplasticity comes into play – training our brain to bounce back to happiness. In essence, my exploration of happiness has taught me its presence in the now, the futility of trying to please everyone and the power of our thoughts. Embracing these insights has not only enhanced my professional approach as a coach and leader but also enriched my personal life, offering a balanced and joyful perspective.