The first and perhaps most important thing to realize about being happier in life is to stop trying to be so happy in life.
Interpretation
True happiness often comes from acceptance rather than constant pursuit.
Mark Manson suggests that the key to happiness is not to obsessively chase after it, but rather to recognize that happiness often arises from acceptance of life as it is. This perspective encourages individuals to let go of unrealistic expectations and find joy in the present moment, rather than constantly striving for an elusive ideal of happiness.
In practice
During a motivational talk on mental well-being, one could use this quote to emphasize the importance of acceptance.
Whereas a lot of Buddhism concerns itself with stages of enlightenment, various precepts and moral codes, and even power structures and hierarchies, Zen is just like, 'Shut up, sit down, and observe your thoughts - oh, and by the way, what you perceive as you' doesn't actually exist.' I loved the minimalist approach of it.
I think people who become compulsive about fitness or eating right, a lot of the time it's out of fear that they're going to lose control or that they're not good enough, so I think anything done out of fear or motivated by fear is often unhealthy.
Many people come to self-help material because they feel like something is wrong with them or the way they are. The problem is that anything that tells you how to improve your life is also implying that there is something inherently wrong with you the way you are.
Writing/reading is like visiting another person's brain. And a short book or article is like a short stay. You come in, have a coffee, talk about the weather or sports, and then move on.
I think humility - which I think is a very good value to adopt - is basically an extension of understanding your own ignorance.
A lot of cases, what makes you an interesting and complex person makes you a really horrible person to be with romantically.
Just living is not enough... one must have sunshine, freedom, and a little flower.
The thing is, my appearance β thatβs never been my moneymaker. Iβm fine being small. Iβm fine being all the things I am. And Iβm happy Iβm not supposed to be on the 50 Most Beautiful list all the time, because that would be super f**king stressful.
You have no cause for anything but gratitude and joy.
Happiness radiates like the fragrance from a flower, and draws all good things toward you.
No matter our circumstances, no matter our challenges or trials, there is something in each day to embrace and cherish. There is something in each day that can bring gratitude and joy if only we will see and appreciate it.
What would you be like if you were the only person in the world? If you want to be truly happy you must be that person.
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