Happiness

How to be happy is one of the most asked questions in life.

Much of what passes as knowledge is actually ancient wisdom that has been repackaged or put into modern terms or language. I am simply quoting the words I have learned even though they may have come from an earlier source. The most important thing to remember is that happiness is a state of mind.

“Happiness is a byproduct of function, purpose, and conflict; those who seek happiness for itself seek victory without war.” - William S. Burroughs. It has been said that happiness is like a butterfly - that if you try to catch it, it will elude you. If you rest after work, it will land on you.

“You are the average of the five people you associate with most, so do not underestimate the effects of your pessimistic, unambitious, or unorganized friends. If someone isn’t making you stronger, they’re making you weaker.” - Tim Ferriss. Many people share this theory because it is true. Be very careful who you make your five. They can be living or dead but choose carefully because the wrong choice can drain you of happiness.

“The more serious you take yourself, the unhappier you’re going to be.” - Naval Ravikant. As the author Kurt Vonnegut observed - we’re here on this earth to dance and be silly.

“The secret of happiness is freedom, and the secret of freedom is courage.” - Thucydides. And not just being brave in action but also having the courage not to care what people think and not fearing death.

“It’s so hard to forget pain, but it’s harder to remember sweetness. We have no scars to show for happiness. We learn so little from peace.” - Chuck Palahniuk. When the butterfly of happiness lands on you be sure to enjoy the moment because we don’t know how long it will last or when it will come again.

“We should never try to balance someone’s misery against someone else’s happiness.” - Karl Popper. There’s no rule against being happy for someone else. In fact you should make that a habit.

“There are people who can neither find happiness in their own lives nor permit those around them to be happy. The best you can do is get those people out of your life.” - Thomas Sowell. This quote incorporates both the idea that we should be happy for other people and also being careful who we choose as our five. If you are having trouble choosing a fifth you may want to try Thomas Sowell’s writing as a companion.

“Robert Johnson wrote that the word ‘happiness’ comes from ‘to happen.’ Our happiness is what happens.” - Jeff Bridges. Happiness comes from being active. Lead an active life and chances are you’ll be happier for it!

“Happiness can be found, even in the darkest of times if only one remembers to turn on the light.” - JK Rowling. Remember happiness is a choice. Choose to be happy!