List 30 things that make you happy.
The post explores the multifaceted nature of happiness or bliss. It emphasises that happiness is a state of mind. This state is influenced by various internal and external factors. While some derive joy from nature, aromas, or accomplishments, others chase material possessions, which give only temporary satisfaction. The text reflects on the idea that true bliss originates from within and is not dictated by materialism. It advocates for minimalism and a deeper connection with nature as sources of inner peace. Ultimately, it suggests that fulfilment comes from collective well-being. Healthy competition and self-improvement also contribute to fulfilment. This is better than an insatiable pursuit of material wealth.
Table of contents
Key Takeaways
- Happiness or bliss is a state of mind influenced by both internal and external factors.
- True happiness comes from within, while material possessions offer only temporary satisfaction.
- Minimalism and a connection with nature enhance inner peace and fulfillment.
- Healthy competition and honest efforts contribute significantly to long-lasting happiness.
- Collective happiness, like that experienced by athletes representing their nation, embodies the essence of bliss.
Happiness
Happiness is primarily a state of mind, influenced by various situations and conditions. It can be challenging, if not impossible, to recognize specific factors that lead to happiness. For some individuals, the joy of visiting restaurants and trying different cuisines brings great pleasure. Others may find happiness in the sweet fragrance of flowers, while the invigorating aroma of spices uplifts certain people. Additionally, many find joy in nature. They hear music in the sounds of cascading waterfalls, flowing streams, swaying flowers, and buzzing bumblebees.
(1) Sources of happiness
There are various ways to keep oneself happy and engaged. Primarily, the work that gives peace and self-satisfaction is the source of joy. People who are passionate about anything good find solace, engagement, and contentment in it. They spend hours on their work of choice without feeling fatigued, and yet they still feel fresh and buoyant.
(2) Materialistic possessions
Material things and possessions are also a source of joy and happiness. The mundane objects, though, give happiness, but it is superficial and doesn’t touch the soul; it is not bliss. It is aptly said that the grass is always greener on the other side. One can achieve what they wish for through hard work and endurance. Still, it is short-lived, and a new wish comes to mind.
(3) The achievement
An office worker wanted to be in a commanding position within the organisation he worked for. Superiors knew about his aspirations and calibre. His superiors would acknowledge his meticulous and result-oriented hard work. It motivated him to work hard. That day he was very happy and felt on cloud nine. He had achieved what he wished. The adrenaline was enough to fill him with ecstasy.
(4) Fleeting happy
The honeymoon period soon ended. Soon, it became a routine and lost its sheen. Now he started dreaming about a big house. His energies were diverted. Owning a big house had become a source of joy. It became necessary. Yet, it started giving him annoyance.
The desires are fleeting and never-ending. They are akin to a mirage. Linking happiness with materialistic desires does not lead to long-lasting happiness. Unfulfilled desires are frustrating and painful. In ancient ethos, materialism was not viewed positively.
Material things lure
Spending time talking in a mango orchard during the hot summer noon was common. Mud houses would effectively beat the heat without much effort. It can be understood with the example of an air conditioner.
(1) Air Conditioner
Affluents used various means to keep their residence cool and dry. Willis Carrier later in 1902 invented air conditioning. An air conditioner (AC) efficiently removes humidity and keep ambiance cool. It “conditions” the air to comfort the human body in hot and sultry weather.
(2) Respite and happiness
People soon became accustomed to air conditioners (AC). In a tropical humid atmosphere, it becomes essential. The use of AC is touted as the only solution to beat the simmering heat and humid weather. It gives relief and, in turn, happiness. When air conditioners became widespread, they proved harmful. They cause higher atmospheric temperatures. This is due to the collective heat they release and certain gases. The cooling happiness became a bane.
(3) Adverse effects
Excessive use of ACs leads to other complications. Modern low-cost houses, particularly row-houses are not usually AC-compliant. The gadget poses other difficulties. The sealed, air-tight dwellings become like furnaces. In the absence of proper ventilation, frequent outages aggravate the situation manyfold. People become furious and bad-tempered. A gadget which was installed for happiness becomes a thing of frustration. Besides, increased and frequent use of ACs puts excessive pressure on demand and supply. It is a vicious cycle.
Small is beautiful
Happiness lies not only in big things. Self-satisfaction and minimalism can lead to a peaceful and happy life. Individual accumulation of amenities gives but an artificial and temporary relief and happiness. Running behind false happiness and searching for them in fulfilling ever-increasing cravings for more leads to unhappiness.
Cosmic joy or sensual happiness
Happiness and bliss are subtly different. The former is superficial, phasic, and depends upon external factors. The latter is intrinsic and resides in an individual’s heart. Basically, it is not dependent on external factors but organic and spontaneous. It is desirable to be in a state of bliss. It requires less energy and effort, but the outcome is phenomenal. (The Times of India)
(1) Harmony with Nature
Our primogenitors gave us a mantra of being in a blissful state by harmonising with Nature. It is not in contravention of the natural law but is congruent with it. We should not seek sensual pleasure by accumulating increasing amounts of physical possessions. Instead, we need to return to Nature and seek solace.
(2) craving for more
The increasing consumerism has converted the human race into a gigantic devil that wants to devour every possible thing. Instead of being calm, serene and composed, humans are craving and vying for more. The increasing lust and cupidity are propelling towards doom. The individualistic approach prefers “me first”. It is gaining ground.
(3) Honest efforts
A healthy and honest effort, sincere enterprise and a will for self-emancipation give long-lasting happiness. Thinking and acting for self-upliftment are absolutely necessary. Improving the living conditions is essential. Overall, individual development is crucial for a balanced and contented life. self-satisfaction. It positively contributes towards a blissful disposition. The purpose of life is to live and let live. Our wise forefathers preached “Vasudhaiv Kutumbakam” (the whole world is a family). They wished for everyone to have a long and healthy life to serve humanity (“Jฤvฤm Sharadh Shatam”).
(4) Sportsperson’s spirit
A sportsperson’s spirit and healthy competition lead to a better life. Bliss is intense and everlasting. It is good to see joyous people enjoying occasions, happenings and moments. It is possible only when they have their basic necessities fulfilled according to their labour and effort.
(5) Material vs mental richness
Richness is a natural wish. Nevertheless, it is subjective. There is no parameter for richness. The bank balance can’t be criteria. It is a physical benchmark and a tool oforcomparing richest among the rich, not the degree of happiness. As a thumb rule, a mentally unburdened one is happier. Happiness doesn’t necessarily mean laughing all the time. It’s a mental state.
Inclusive and satisfied
Everyone can’t be a multimillionaire, but one can have enough to sustain oneself and help other genuinely needy individuals. In the Indian thought process, beseeching God for contentment is the core idea. Greed or wishing to have overflowing material wealth was not the priority. It ensures that no individual or needy person stays hungry.
(1) Saint Kabeer
What the great spiritual poet Kabeer says is the essence of our ethos and thinking about life. He prays to God only for that much which can sustain him and his impending guests.
Sฤi Itnฤ Dijiye, Jฤ me Kutum Samฤye; Mai Bhi Bhukhฤ Na Rahun Sฤdhu Na Bhukhฤ Jaye
-Kabeer
Indian thinkers’ wish was simple, inclusive and encompassing. It is the bliss that sprouts in the heart and keeps the person vitalised. The bliss grows like a tree and gives shade and shelter. (Isha: Sadhguru)
Bliss in collective happiness
A sportsperson competing with fellows to show the best and earn a reward is laudable. It is the spirit that gives the bliss. As the national flag rises atop, a feeling of accomplishment dawns. The winners, at the podium, feel proud and happy for their nation. Sportspersons symbolise the nation and millions of compatriots. It is a mass feeling of happiness that condenses into a single solid bliss. The ecstatic feeling of the sportsperson becomes representative of people’s aspirations, hard work, perseverance and zeal.
In the end
Getting a reward for hard work not only brings joy but also encouragement. It is the individual to do better in future. It becomes a trendsetter for future aspirants, encouraging them to excel in their respective fields. Its positive impact can’t be denied or ignored. It is this happiness that is the source of bliss. It is the thing that leaves an indelible mark that inspires generations to come.
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