In pursuit of happiness during the pandemic
Today, in this world driven by instant gratification, everyone around seems to be chasing joy and happiness desperately. However, that so-called happiness is ephemeral and lasts only a couple of hours.
There are social media posts reminding us to stay charged to accomplish our goals and Whatsapp messages compelling us to chase our dreams to find the ultimate source of joy. All this seems like a pressure building and a breath choking scenario where everyone is competing against each other for more. The more could be the fitter you are, more Netflix series, more exclusive cooking, more designer clothes or bags, in fact anything under the sun!
However, in the wise words of author Ruskin Bond, “Happiness is as exclusive as a butterfly, and you must never pursue it. If you stay very still, it may come and settle on your hand. But only briefly. Savour those moments, for they will not come in your way very often.”
Notwithstanding these times, it is not easy to keep one’s spirits high amid negativity approaching us from all over the world. Nonetheless, I have learnt that happiness is not a rat race and it can be created with a little mindfulness and awareness about our own selves and our environment.
Concentrate on the smaller things, they are the ones that matter. Something like making your bed the moment you get up can give a sense of accomplishment to kick start your mornings or a fresh flower arrangement in your room is bound to bring a smile on your face all day through.
Getting deeper into the process and giving back to nature is an essential element in keeping stress at bay. Feeding birds some grain or leftovers can be a big booster as you begin your day. Remember your day depends upon how well you begin it.
Gratitude is a magical healer, we must count our blessings daily and maybe write them down instead of finding fault in our stars. Instead of looking for happiness outside, look within. Spend some time in solitude, watch your thoughts and enjoy your own company rather than being dependent on others.
Essentially, a life of purpose and meaning adds a sense of satisfaction. Writer Richard Bach once said, “Here is the test to find whether your mission on earth is finished. If you’re alive, it isn’t.”
Have a fixed timetable in the form of a chart of activities, including exercise, meditation, indulging in your favourite hobby, and all that you need to accomplish in a day, also follow it religiously to have a sense of achievement. I pasted a self-devised well-being plan on my cupboard since the lockdown began.
Helping and uplifting others, cheering them up or something as simple as smiling at someone can lift you up significantly.
As in the words of Mahatma Gandhi: “The best way to find yourself is to lose yourself in the service of others. All other pleasures and possessions pale into nothingness before service which is rendered in a spirit of joy.”
HAPPINESS IS NOT A RAT RACE. IT CAN BE CREATED WITH A LITTLE MINDFULNESS AND AWARENESS ABOUT OUR OWN SELVES AND ENVIRONMENT