Better experience in portrait mode.

What is Happiness? Understanding the Meaning, Signs, Myths Surrounding It, and Secrets to a Happy Life

kapanlagi
What is Happiness? Understanding the Meaning, Signs, Myths Surrounding It, and Secrets to a Happy Life Illustration of a Smile. (copyright/Canva).

Kapanlagi.com - In a constantly spinning and pressure-filled world, the question of what happiness is has always been a focal point for humanity. From the days of classical philosophers to modern research, the quest to define and understand the essence of happiness continues. However, happiness is more than just a fleeting emotion or a particular achievement; it is a state of well-being that transcends instant gratification.

Happiness is not merely a positive feeling, but it has also been shown to have remarkable impacts on our physical and mental health. From improved immune systems to longer life expectancy, various scientific evidence suggests that happiness is key to living a more meaningful and productive life.

From the draining demands of careers to rapid cultural changes, modern individuals face a variety of obstacles that can affect their emotional well-being. To that end, Kapanlagi.com has summarized intriguing information from Psychology Today about what happiness is and how to achieve it on Tuesday (19/11). Let's take a look together!

1. What is Happiness?

Happiness, a captivating and elusive state, has become the object of pursuit for various groups, from philosophers to economists. Since the 1990s, positive psychology has emerged as a discipline focused on exploring the deeper essence of happiness, going beyond mere feelings of joy.

Happiness is not just about a cheerful mood, but also encompasses genuine well-being, where life is filled with meaning and profound satisfaction. Interestingly, the feeling of happiness not only has emotional impacts but also contributes to physical health, improving heart health, strengthening the immune system, and even correlating with longevity.

In this universal quest, research shows that around the world, people prioritize happiness above material achievements and other personal ambitions.

2. How to Be Happy

True happiness is not just about jumping from one joy to another; research shows that the journey to happiness often involves moments of unavoidable discomfort. Everything from genetics to life circumstances, achievements, marital status, and social relationships plays a role in shaping our levels of happiness.

However, interestingly, much of our happiness can be controlled by ourselves! By regularly celebrating small pleasures, engaging in challenges, setting and achieving goals, and maintaining close social relationships, we can enhance our life satisfaction.

The key is not happiness itself, but the process of pursuing it. Maintaining a balance between positive and negative emotions, developing resilience to stress, and practicing gratitude are the foundations for solid happiness. Daily habits such as getting enough sleep, exercising, and meditating also greatly support our well-being.

By opening ourselves up to personal growth, managing expectations, and finding meaning in everyday actions, we can achieve sustainable happiness. Awareness of the small moments in life is also key to discovering true happiness.

3. Signs of a Happy Person

People who experience true happiness are those who live with a clear purpose, find joy in sincere relationships, and strive to pursue their dreams while remaining true to their values.

They are not tempted by material pleasures or luxurious vacations, but instead find satisfaction in simple moments, such as petting their beloved cat, relaxing under the shade of a tree, or enjoying a warm cup of tea.

The characteristics of this happiness are evident in their open attitude towards new learning, high patience, easy smiles, and the ability to adapt to change. They show affection, feel grateful, maintain healthy relationships, and celebrate the successes of others sincerely.

By not holding grudges, not getting caught up in trivial matters, and not feeling anxious about the past or future, they live life with meaning and purpose, share happiness without heaviness, and create a mindset that supports sustainable happiness.

4. Myth of Happiness

Happiness is often seen as a goal that can be achieved by reaching certain milestones, such as finding an ideal partner or getting a tempting salary. However, in reality, humans have an extraordinary ability to adapt, so even when we achieve those dreams, our sense of happiness will return to its original level, and we start seeking new accomplishments.

Interestingly, this principle also applies when we face setbacks; we have the resilience to bounce back and find happiness again. This misunderstanding about happiness is evident in beliefs like "I will be happy when I am rich" or "I can't be happy when my relationship is falling apart." Understanding that true happiness does not depend on external achievements is an important step towards a healthier perspective on what happiness means in our lives.

(kpl/rao)

Disclaimer: This translation from Bahasa Indonesia to English has been generated by Artificial Intelligence.
Swipe Up Next Article

Cobain For You Page (FYP) Yang kamu suka ada di sini,
lihat isinya

Buka FYP