To varying degrees, we are all guilty of this. At one time or another, we have said or thought words to the effect that “when X happens, then I will be happy”. For example, “When I finally get married, then I will be happy”, or “when I have a family, I will be happy”, or “when I complete that degree, I will be happy”, or “when I get that promotion, I will be happy”.

These sentiments tend to suggest three things. First, is the need for delayed gratification: it is necessary to sacrifice and experience discomfort before you can be rewarded with what you desire. Second, the focus tends to be on the goal, and not the journey, and reaching the goal is what brings happiness. Third, once the goal is realised, the accompanying happiness is a constant and prolonged experience.

However, happiness can be fleeting. Yes, you might be happy upon achieving a goal, but that feeling is usually temporary and can quickly decline from its initial intensity. Moreover, degree of the happiness you feel may not be comparable with or compensate for, all the sacrifices you have made.

The trick, therefore, is to try to create more happy moments in your life in the present and not have your happiness tied to milestones in the future. Instead, try to find ways to be happy now by celebrating the little things and actively cultivating a joyful heart.

 

Throughout the day, we invite you to revisit this quote. Below are a few questions you may wish to ask yourself, and those who journal may find them especially useful:

• Do I believe that I will be happy when I have achieved a particular goal?
• Do I still postpone my happiness to a time in the future?
• In what ways can I experience more happiness in the present?

 

 

Best wishes and have a great day!