Hello, Friends!
It's hard to believe how much has transpired in just the first few days of October, and I'm still processing it all. As I navigate this winding path called adulthood in a new country, I'm excited to share with you my ongoing journey of growth, reflection, and self-discovery.
October has brought with it a profound theme that has captured my heart: taking back my happiness. At first, I was hesitant, even skeptical, about this notion. It sounded somewhat childlike, something reserved for fairy tales or self-help books. But as I've delved deeper into this pursuit, it's become clear that there's a profound wisdom in it.
You see, many of us spend countless hours of our lives conforming to what we believe society expects of us rather than following our true passions. We are often so consumed by obligations and expectations that we lose sight of what makes us genuinely happy. But not anymore. Here's what my journey to take back my happiness looks like, and the profound lessons I've learned along the way.
1. Doing What I Love
The cornerstone of reclaiming my happiness is embracing the things I love. It's about rediscovering those passions that light up my soul and giving them the attention they deserve. We must make time for the activities, hobbies, and pursuits that genuinely bring us joy. This journey requires us to unapologetically prioritize our own happiness, regardless of societal expectations.
2. Slowing Down
In the hustle and bustle of life, we often forget to slow down and savor the moment. Taking back my happiness has shown me the importance of finding moments of tranquility amidst the chaos. By slowing down, I can fully appreciate the beauty of everyday life and connect with my inner self.
3. Making Space
Decluttering our physical and mental space is essential to the process of reclaiming happiness. By letting go of things that no longer serve us, we create room for positivity, joy, and personal growth.
As I progress on this journey, here are a few pivotal realizations that have taken root in my heart:
1. Reflection and Self-Discovery
Reclaiming happiness demands self-reflection and a deeper understanding of what truly makes us happy. It's about shedding light on our passions, desires, and values, and not compromising on them.
2. The Complexity of Happiness
Happiness is not the absence of negative emotions, but rather the recognition of satisfaction and fulfillment that certain activities bring us. It's about embracing the entire spectrum of emotions and finding joy in the pursuit of our passions.
3. The Power of Discipline and Intention
To reclaim happiness, we must be disciplined and intentional in our pursuit of joy. It's about consistently practicing the things that bring us happiness and being intentional in our daily choices.
4. The Need for Strategy
Reclaiming happiness requires strategy. Like a novice starting from scratch, I'm learning to navigate a world where I don't yet fully understand what truly makes me happy. It can be frustrating, especially when I've spent years as an expert at doing what I thought I should be doing.
So, what does reclaiming my happiness look like in practical terms?
1. Documenting My Learning Journey
I've started creating writing templates to document my learning experiences. This practice keeps me engaged and helps me crystallize my thoughts, ensuring I remain aligned with my true passions.
2. Reframing Narratives
I've begun reframing narratives to remind myself why I'm doing certain things. Instead of being a passive observer in my life, I'm choosing to be an active participant.
In this endeavor, I'm not relying on complicated apps or frameworks. Instead, I'm primarily using my trusty notes app, LinkedIn, and TikTok to connect with others and explore new possibilities.
As I embrace the theme of taking back my happiness this October, I invite you to join me in exploring your own path to happiness. It's never too late to prioritize your well-being, rediscover your passions, and live life on your terms. Let's take back our happiness together and make every day a journey worth celebrating.
Thanks for reading ! I would love to hear your thoughts, let’s chat in the comment section.
Love,
Oibiee