Several days ago, I noticed this quote by Ralph Marston (1907-1967) again: “Happiness is a choice; not a result.” If this would be true then why do so many people not make that “choice” for happiness? Given the pursuit of happiness by so many people, a result is (much) more likely than a choice.
There is some truth in Ralph Marston’s saying. In my view, however, it’s mostly wishful thinking.
Happiness indeed comes from within you and not by/from others.
Satisfaction, on the other hand, often comes from the outside and by/from others.
Any choice is based on priorities (eg, at home, in life, at work). Else, a choice would not be required.
Our common priorities in life are: car, career, house, job, and – obviously – finding Love.
Happiness is seldom a priority on that list until we miss it. Hence, our pursuit of happiness.
Happiness is a state of mind that is related to appreciation and gratitude. Example: the perspective of a glass half full or half empty is exactly the same but the mindset (ie, focus) is different. We either focus on what we (already) have, or not (yet) have. Or, in the words of Oprah Winfrey:
“Be thankful for what you have; you’ll end up having more. If you concentrate on what you don’t have, you will never, ever have enough.” source
Life’s list of priorities is ultimately a reflection of our needs, wants & beliefs, and our Belief systems (eg, 2015 original and 2019 update). Hence, making a different choice in life is not easy. A (new) choice takes (new) Faith, Beliefs & Willpower. There is no switch in our mind that says: Happiness ON / OFF.
Ultimately, you need to make a choice in life between More = Better (my 2016 blog) and Less = More (my 2014 blog). Also see my related blogs. Happiness may come as a result.
“Never let your quest for more, distract you from the beauty of enough.”
From The Beauty of Enough by Sahil Bloom. Note: comma in quote by LO.
Happy (2013) by Pharrell Williams
artist, lyrics, video, Wiki-artist, Wiki-song
It might seem crazy what I’m ’bout to say
Sunshine she’s here, you can take a break
I’m a hot air balloon that could go to space
With the air, like I don’t care, baby, by the way
(Because I’m happy)
Note: all markings (bold, italic, underlining) by LO unless in quotes or stated otherwise.
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