I don’t know about it being THE key but it’s certainly one of the keys on my keychain of life. Even so, I was terribly unhappy for far too many years. It wasn’t until the pain of being unhappy was too heavy to carry any longer that I chose to do something vastly different. Don’t get me wrong, I TRIED to do things for myself for years (new house, new job, even another baby which turned out to be twins). I thought these things would make me happy, but they all brought around temporary happiness, if any at all. As for the children – they absolutely made me feel happy, but that joy still didn’t replace the overall unhappiness that persisted.
So if you’re not happy, and it’s a state you’ve been in for some time, you have a choice to make. Stay unhappy or choose to do something differently. I know that may sound harsh, but it’s quite freeing and empowering when we make a decision either way! We either need to accept our situation and get on with it in all it has to offer OR take action, make decisions that will alter our life in some way (big or small).
SIDEBAR: I’m not talking depression here….been there too and this rant/article does not pertain to those in that situation.
Assuming you’re ready to do something different, where do you start? Well, that depends on where exactly you want to go. When I decided, I knew I was going BIG places and that I needed help. I got a coach and a mediator for my career and life transition that happened. What do YOU need to get to where you want?
I have a few suggestions for you:
1. Take Stock of Your Life – Make a list of what makes you happy. Make a list of what a you do in a typical week. Compare the lists. Adjust accordingly! This little tweak has major impact over time. It may be just what some of you need!
2. My 7 Day Happiness Challenge – You will get a daily video and workbook sent directly to your inbox for 7 days i a row. These are research based and designed to create a happier life in just 7 days! You can be the first to know about its launch by signing up to my email list here. These are more involved, instructional and reflective than #1.
3. Hire a coach. Some people (me for example) need a lot of support to get the clarity, the mindset and the accountability to bring about the desired big and necessary life changes. We all at various times in our lives rely on experts to get us to where we want to be (financial advisors, doctors, physiotherapists, etc). Life Coaches are that for some. You can book a free, no obligation call here if this is something you’d like to explore. There are many awesome coaches out there so find one who connects with you and can get you to where you want/need to be!
Whatever you do, don’t settle. We do over-complicate life a little (a lot) but when trying to simplify and see through the haze, it can be daunting. You’re worth it and deserve it. It took me 40 years to finally get here and was it ever worth the journey.
Wishing you much happiness!
Louise
Be Brave. Be Bold. Be Happy.™
Originally published at www.linkedin.com