If there is one place where we should be
completely free, then it is in our own mind. We might have limitations in terms
of what our bodies are capable of and what we’re allowed to do – but our minds
should be free to roam wherever we want them to.
Unfortunately, this is not the reality most
of us live in. Instead, our thoughts are dictated by our circumstances and
those circumstances are largely out of our control. This is why we will often
find ourselves feeling dissatisfied and constantly wanting to push forward,
rather than stopping to enjoy life and smell the roses.
And without meaning to get political or
philosophical, our capitalist lifestyles only reinforce this nature and try to
push us faster.
Are You Happy?
Most of us are constantly in a position of
slight dissatisfaction. We feel as though there’s ‘one thing’ that could make
our lives better and help us to be happier. Maybe we wish we had just a little
bit more money, or maybe we wish we had a bigger house. Maybe we want a better
job?
Partly this will be encouraged by the media
and by the material goods that we want. We want more money so we can play the
latest game, wear the latest clothes and post pictures of ourselves on holiday
to show to friends.
And we keep working harder and stressing more to try and accomplish these things
– in turn keeping the cogs of society spinning.
Making a Change
But now take a think about that game you
find yourself wanting. Aren’t there computer games on your shelf right now that
you haven’t played yet? Aren’t there free games you could download today and
have just as much fun with? Isn’t it just marketing that is pushing you towards
that next game and that next expense?
Likewise, ask yourself if having more money
would really make you happier. You can travel very cheaply right now – the
problem is probably more with leaving work. More responsibility isn’t going to
help that!
So how do you make a change and start to be
freer and happier right now? The answer is that you change your focus. Instead
of fixating on what you don’t have and on what you want, instead start to
fixate on what you already have and what you’re grateful for. This is called a
‘gratitude attitude’ and it’s the fastest route to having a satisfying and
happy life.
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