Inspiration ~ Happiness

Happiness

There are many “things” that we think we need in life ~ money, success, fame but if you ask people what they really want out of life, the answer is usually Happiness. The problem with this is many people think that if they have money, success, fame etc. first, then they will be happy.

The truth is we need to let go of the things we think we need and who we think we are meant to be, before we can find true happiness. Often we fall short of happiness because the things we thought would make us happy, turn out to be a disappointment.

I spent this past weekend at a mother and daughter camp with my eldest, which turned out to be way more challenging physically than I ever expected! Don’t get me wrong, I enjoy being physical and being out doors but I am a perfectionist and dislike having to do things I am not comfortable with. Well I was forced way outside of my comfort zone, as we had to do a 11km paddle on the Breede River and for some reason river rafting has never been my idea of fun! The second part of the challenge was I had to paddle with my daughter – we both like to be in-charge so you can well imagine the fight for power that ensued!

We came back from camp exhausted and stiff from a full day of physical activity but ultimately and most importantly we had FUN! There is nothing better for the soul than finding what makes you happy and doing it! I have realised that although I love having nice things, these things do not bring ultimate happiness. It is more important for me to have my family around me and spend time with those I love!

Another very important thing to remember, is that happiness is a choice, you need to choose to be happy. It is not something that someone can give you or material possessions will bring you but more of an acceptance of who and where you are in life. Once you have let go of preconceived ideas of what happiness is, I believe you can and will be happy.

I love this list of 10 to Zen, things to let go of and do to find HAPPINESS!