In pursuit of happiness

“Happiness is not achieved by the conscious pursuit
of happiness; it is generally the by-product
of other activities.” ~Aldous Huxley

Having personally gone through depression some years ago, and then finally coming out of it, I have really gained a valuable insight into how powerful the mind can be.

When I was at my absolute lowest, I fumbled through my everyday activities, but I never felt like myself.  I felt as if I was living in someone else’s body, and while I was able to function, the best way I can describe it was having weights on all my limbs and neck, constantly pulling me down with some unknown burden to carry.  Literally, having gained roughly one hundred pounds, it is no wonder I felt that way.  Literally and figuratively, I was carrying a load.

I knew something was not right, and I desperately just wanted to feel better again – like I had in the past.  The challenge, however, was actually figuring out how to feel better.  Unfortunately, I didn’t stumble upon an answer for ten years.   I didn’t realize the actual mechanism behind the turnaround until recently, and I was surprised at how simple it the concept actually is.  I am very happy to share this with you, so that you can utilize this tool to improve your life, and the lives of your family, loved ones, and those around you!

How do we get on track to better feelings?  Can we will ourselves to feeling better by the thoughts or attitudes we possess?

According to two resources I can think of off the top of my head, James Lehman and Kevin Hogan, they both suggest this very powerful concept:

You can behave your way to better feelings!

This totally makes sense to me, now that I look back to my personal battle with weight and eating.  As much as I wanted to feel better and be successful, I wasn’t able to accomplish that until I started modifying my behavior, and start exercising and watching what I ate.

Almost miraculously, once I started modeling positive behavior, great feelings came with it, and with those positive feelings and attitudes, it led to more behavioral changes, which again led to even better feelings!

I encourage all of you to try this out yourself in areas of your life in which you seek personal happiness and fulfillment.  Look for ways that you can modify your behavior in one or more small ways, and see if you notice an improvement in your attitude and your level of happiness.  Consider taking up a hobby, or taking up a more active lifestyle with moderate eating habits.  Perhaps reading a self-help book on a subject of personal interest for a half hour to an hour a day would be a behavior that would provide you with behavioral recommendations and positive self-development.

Think about how those behavioral changes and better feelings will impact not only you, but your family and those around you as well!  Isn't it worth it?

Remember that by making small changes in your life, you can experience powerful results that can positively impact your life, and the lives of those around you, in many ways.  You are always in control!

Have a great day, and best wishes!

-Victor