Path To Happiness

Having lived a reasonably contented life, I was missing over what a person should strive for to achieve happiness.

Although happiness is subjective , we can't define it. What may bring happiness to me at this point of time and at this location and surroundings might not bring the same joy when either if the parameters change.

The same thing that made you happy as a child might not not make your grown-up self happy.
Still we can put forth a few point that in general includes all that can make one happy.

First, and foremost is good health.

Without having good health you can never be happy. Any ailment, however trivial,will deduct from your happiness.

Second, a healthy bank balance.

It need not run into millions but should be enough to provide for creature comforts and still have something to spare for recreation, like eating out, going to the pictures, traveling or going on holidays by the sea or on the hills. Shortage of money can be only demoralizing. Living on credit or borrowing is detrimental and lowers one in one's own eyes

Third, a home of your own.

Rented premises can never give you the snug feeling of a nest which your home provides. If it has a garden space, even better. Plant your own trees and flowers, see them grow up and blossom, cultivate a sense of kinship with them.

Fourth, an understanding companion.

Be it your spouse or a friend. If there are too many misunderstandings, they will take away from you your peace of mind. It is better to be divorced than to fight all the time.

Fifth, lack of envy.

Towards those who have done better than you in life; climbed up higher, earned more fame , has a higher bank balance. Envy can be very destructive; avoid comparing yourself with others.

Sixth, do not allow other people.

To descend on you for ghup-shup. By the time you get rid of them, you will feel exhausted and poisoned by their gossips-mongering.

Seventh, Cultivate some hobbies.

Which can bring you a sense of fulfillment such as writing, reading, gardening , playing or listening to music. Going to clubs or parties to get free drinks or to meet celebrities is undoubtedly a waste of time.

Eighth, every morning and devote 15 minutes to introspection.

In the morning,10 minutes should be spent on stilling the mind and then in listening things you have to do that day. On the evening, 5 minutes to still the mind again and then to go over what you had undertaken to do.

RICHNESS IS NOT EARNING MORE, SPENDING MORE OR SAVING MORE BUT RICHNESS IS WHEN YOU NEED NO MORE.
--- Khushwant Singh