“Do what makes you happy” – you’ve probably heard it a dozen times, and it sounds like it should be pretty simple, right? Once you really put some thought into it, though, this “simple” idea can become quite overwhelming, and it has no doubt been the discussion topic of countless therapy sessions throughout the years. Is it possible to find what will make you happy?
Is “happiness” a reasonable goal?
When someone tells you “do what makes you happy,” it is probably meant to be encouraging and helpful. However, this can put a lot of pressure on a person, trying to decide exactly what will make you happy and then figuring out how to accomplish this. After all, how can you tell what will make you happy in the future? How can you be happy in the present, with all of the stress and the obligations you face every day?
For the purposes of this quick discussion, there are two different kinds of happiness: long-term and short-term happiness.
Long term
Long-term happiness lies in finding what interests you and what will make you happy in the future. It’s not all about the destination, though; just making goals and figuring out how to achieve them in itself can be something that makes you happy. But remember that achieving goals takes time, and also remember that you can always change your mind and adjust your plans. While working on one plan, you may decide on another plan that’s even better, and that’s fine!
Short term
In the short term, happiness may just lie in taking things moment by moment, appreciating the little things, being grateful for what you have, and finding ways to make your day special. This, of course, is easier than it sounds and can actually take a lot of work, but it is worth the effort.
The most you can do, really, is try to be happy in the moment, while working on things that interest you and having exciting goals and plans for the future. For in-depth discussions about your future and what “happiness” means to you, contact the staff at Wasatch Crest Treatment in Heber, Utah. Call (800) 385-3507.
