“We speak of searching for happiness, of finding contenment, as if these were locations on an atlas, actual places that we could visit if only we had the proper map and the right navigational skills.” – Eric Weiner
Can you you find peace of mind in your present? Can you be satisfied with all that you have in this moment? Why do we put our happiness on hold and make excuses for our lack of satisfaction?
A few days ago, the New York Times reported that Hawaii is the happiest state in the nation, ranking no. 1 for the fourth year in a row. The Well- Being Index looks at residents health, work environment, access to resources and their own feelings about their lives to determine happiness.
Surprise Surprise. From an outsiders perspective, life in Hawaii is “paradise” (insert your own definition). And I would be lying if I said I didn’t agree. The lifestyle is crazy conducive to my laid-back free-spirit nature. I put more energy and emphasis on my community, relationships, and passions instead of “work.” I didn’t take the linear career path that many of my friends did. I would rather go back to school for art and photography than to get my masters. I know my career won’t look like anyone else’s and that I might have to create it. And so the question has arose, Can I do this here? and moreover, do I want to do this here?
I find happiness here, but I also find discontentment- the need for a new scene, expansion, and change.
So I live the questions, hoping that life will lead me to the answers. And until those answers are yelling in my face, I engage in all that brings me joy HERE and NOW.
What happiness looks like lately…
Morning rehab swims at Kaimanas. Water therapy has definitely helped keep me sane. Can my career read: Professional Mermaid?
What has made you happy lately? Are you putting an ultimatum on your own joy? Turn inside to find contentment before you look to the exterior for fulfillment. Maybe you’re not exactly where you want to be geographically, financially, intimately, or emotionally but there is always something, no matter how small, that can be highlighted as a source of happiness where you are right here and now.
