How to be Happy: What it Means to Cultivate Contentment

“I just want to be happy.” How many times have you said that to yourself? How many times have you admitted it to a therapist or counselor? Really, isn’t happiness what we’re all searching for? While there’s absolutely nothing wrong with wanting to be happy, sometimes it can cloud reality to the point of being an unrealistic expectation. Happiness is different for everyone. When you make being happy a goal, you can easily get caught up focusing on the things you don’t have or that your life may not be turning out like some idealized vision you have.  Instead of focusing on the goal of being happy, it’s a better idea to cultivate contentment and look at the bigger picture. But, what does that mean? And how can you do it?

Realizing That Happiness is More

Looking at the bigger picture is more than just an old saying. It’s a way of “zooming out” and considering why you think certain things would make you happy. Maybe you think a certain kind of car would make you fulfilled? Or, a remodeled kitchen? Maybe a new relationship? But will it really? Once you have, "that thing", what then? How long will the pleasure from that thing or that experience really last?Look through a different perspective; one that isn’t so directly involved and up-close. When you’re so constantly focused on the things you want, or the things you believe will make you happy, you could be missing the things you already have in your life that leave you feeling content. Contentment is something you can experience every day, and probably already do when you’re not focused on the “what ifs” of happiness. 

Cultivating the Moment

Cultivating the moment is another way of saying “focus on the small things”. Again, that’s not just some motivational saying or a way to make you feel better. Once the blood flow increases and fills in the penis, then greyandgrey.com viagra price the flow is interrupted then pulsatile tinnitus will be experienced.The reality is, the little things can make a big difference. You can form healthy habits that boost your contentment. As a result, you’re likely to feel happier, even if you don’t have that new sports car. The best part? You can cultivate contentment at any time. Stop what you’re doing right now and make a list of five things in your life that you’re grateful for. They don’t have to be big things. In fact, focusing on the little things can cause you to think of so much more. Try making a habit of finding gratitude every day. Carry that list with you, and look at it whenever you’re feeling down or you’re worried your happiness is dependent on things you don’t have. 

Do Life With Intention

Another way to cultivate contentment is to be intentional with everything you do. Going through the motions in life makes it easy to overlook the good things. What does living with intention mean? It means seeing the purpose in everything you do, so you can find enjoyment in it.  That might include something like being intentional as you go running in the morning. Does it help you clear your head, boost your creativity, or just make you feel good about yourself? Focus on that as you get ready for your run. When you're cooking dinner, are you just cooking dinner or are you creating a nourishing, healthy meal to take care of yourself and your family? Focusing on the deeper why in what we do increases of satisfaction and contentment. You can also be more intentional with your relationships. Slow down and pay attention to what you feel when you’re with the people in your life who bring you joy. Schedule time with them doing things you both enjoy or just enjoying each other’s company. Again, it’s all about seeing the “little things”. That’s easier to do when you can be present in everything you do. Cultivating contentment requires moments of mindfulness, which can also help you feel less stressed and less worried about things you think you need or want. Practice bringing yourself back to the present moment, where we all live. Practice stepping back when you find yourself ruminating about the past, which can't be changed, or worrying about the future which isn't here yet. Writer Robert Brault once said, "Enjoy the little things. For one day you may look back and realize they were the big things." Contentment is easier than happiness because it’s the acceptance of the things you already have. But it’s not always easy to get there when you’re so focused on those wants or unrealistic expectations. If you’re struggling to find contentment in your life, be patient with yourself as you work to adopt a more accepting view of yourself and your life. About: Chanderbhan Psychological Services is a therapy practice located in Laredo, Texas. We help individuals and couples who are struggling in different areas of their lives gain the clarity they need to grow and change. We also offer video counseling services to individuals located in the wider State of Texas. To read blogs on mental health and relationships, visit our website.