We have often come across the idea that Happiness is like a butterfly. The more you chase it, the farther it flies away from your reach. Ironically, if we stop running after it, every once in a while, it will come and sit on our shoulders, enamoring us with its fleeting presence.
Is happiness really an ephemeral delight, or is it a misconception to believe so? Happiness, in fact, is not a material accomplishment which we need to pursue. It is indeed, a state of mind, a fragment of the being, and not something apart. Our consciousness is a reservoir containing a wealth of this coveted emotion. We only need to find a spark which ignites this wealth.
From daily life, we have several instances to prove this point. A baby in a cradle seems to be happy for no reason as he explores things around himself. Unless aroused by any physical discomfort, babies are the perfect example of unbridled joy. Their unfiltered sense of contentment permeates the surroundings as well, so much so, that the people around also radiate happiness in their presence! Children are conditioned to be happy, as they go about their daily chores which, for adults often seems like a grind.
Another instance of this ‘Happy’ feeling is witnessed when we observe an artist immersed in his painting, or a potter working his hands deftly on the wheel, to create a masterpiece. For that matter a writer, singer, dancer, all of them engaged in a creative pursuit, definitely seem to be happy. And surely, these people are not chasing happiness. They are in fact, birthing their own happiness, which comes from finding a meaningful purpose in life. In Japanese culture this purpose is termed as ‘Ikigai’, and it is finding more and more relevance in today’s world, driven by deadlines!
Instant gratification, such as going on a shopping spree, or indulging in your favourite cuisine, may be pleasurable for a while, but the feeling is not lasting. Material possessions cannot be a substitute for happiness. Our happiness is an inside job and is brought about by an overall sense of well-being. The more we tend to this garden, through positive thoughts, meaningful connections, and gratefulness for the smallest of things, the happier we find ourselves. This happiness doesn’t only reflect in our countenance but shows up as good health and a radiant aura, that in turn attracts more goodness.
Now, coming to things which make us unhappy—first on the list is a constant comparison with others. Life should not be treated as a race to compete. It is a journey to be traversed, learning lessons, faltering and rising yet again. The glory lies in rising through failures and overcoming hurdles, at our own pace. Comparison leads to insecurity, destroying our inner calm and even affecting relationships. Tread your own path and water your own grass to make it green! Insecurity and jealousy are partners in crime which lead to self-doubt and defeat, corroding our soul.
Nature intends us to be happy and this has been proven by science too. Scientists have identified four happiness hormones produced in the human body. These are designated as Dopamine, Oxytocin, Serotonin and Endorphin— abbreviated as DOSE. Each of these hormones are triggered as a response to a certain positive stimulus, resulting in a ‘Happy’ mood. For example, exercising regularly produces the feel-good hormone, Endorphin, which keep us energized through the day. A good cuddle with our child, or a hug from a friend, produces Oxytocin, yet another feel-good hormone, and so on. Any irregularity in the production of these hormones may trigger feelings of unworthiness and melancholy, bringing down our sense of contentment.
Thus, we eventually realize that happiness is a self-grown emotion, which stems from an innate sense of peace and contentment, bereft of material pleasures. The key to unlock this wealth is surely in our hands, so that we are not a victim of our circumstances but rather find ourselves in a position to turn any situation in our favour by practicing positivity and nurturing this potent seed of ‘Happiness’ that has always been within us!