The happiness paradigm

"Things" don't bring you happiness! Fast cars, fancy clothes, big houses/apartments are not the source of anyone's joy - they are merely the mirror that reflects back the inherent joy that is permanently within us.

Let me explain.

Whilst we may believe that nice "things" are what makes us happy (least that's what marketing tells us), looking for our happiness from "things" frequently makes the experience of happiness a temporary one.

Let's take the purchase of a sports car for example. You purchase the latest model, it's in outlandish red, everyone notices you as you drive past, you feel so cool!

But then they bring out a new model...

You're neighbour gets one that is even flashier...

There's a hailstorm and it gets a dent in the bonnet...

Your significant other doesn't like red...

The locals get used to you and they stop paying attention...

In fact they positively don't like your exuberant display of wealth...

Suddenly everything that made you feel happy is now making you feel unhappy. You are a no-one again. Clearly you need another new car...

If our happiness is dependent on external things, then we're relying on something outside of our control. We have very little control over:

- how other people think about us (being liked/not liked)

  - what other people are doing (buying a new car) 

- what other people consider 'cool' (fashion trends)

  - what happens to us (our life journey)

  - what happens to the things we own (weather damage).

This "no control" thing goes both ways. If you have a strong opinion about your low financial status it's important to remember that list above is equally true. What we have the most influence over is our relationship to our Self, thoughts, feelings, other people.

We can:

  - like or dislike ourselves (I strongly recommend like!)

  - make conscious choices about our behaviour   - align our life to what naturally presents

  - take care of the things we own, appreciate them, and know they are simply a vehicle to experience ourselves more fully.

The statement "happiness is an inside job" is so true! Nothing external to you can bring you lasting happiness if you are not already happy. You can have no possessions at all and be deliriously happy! To be happy have to know it's possible and remove the barriers to that being your experience.

Meditation is great for this. It teaches us to let go of the mind, the source of great unhappiness for many,  and enjoy the peace and prosperity of the present moment. If I can be of service with this, let me know. 🙂

#wealth #wellbeing #happiness