Stop contemplating all the reasons you have for not following the path that was created especially for you. Find it. Then go where it leads you.

Happiness is not a State of Being, but a Journey

Happiness is not an entitlement. For most people, in fact, it is a rare thing indeed. Especially when defined as a state of emotion. Most of us have been conditioned to expect only brief moments of contentment hidden within days or weeks of angst, depression and apprehension. These moments of contentment are what we consider our "happy times."

In fact, happiness is most often found while in the pursuit of those things which mean the most to each of us. Whether actively or passively, the majority of one's activities each day should be those that involve pursuing the passions of life. It is this pursuit that brings joy. Whether the road traveled is smooth and tranquil or difficult and full of adversity makes little difference as long the motivation behind the journey is not forgotten or cast aside.
Of course, the journey is nothing more than aimless wandering without a clear vision of your destination. Therefore, one must know and understand these desires of the heart before the journey can ever begin. This is the downfall of most people's pursuit of happiness. They have not yet identified their purpose, priorities, passions, or bliss.

Most people spend the vast majority of their lives pursuing either money, power, or both. In these things, they expect to find the security, freedom, and stability they believe will bring happiness. Unfortunately, both money and power become addictive forces in many lives. Whatever amount is defined as "enough" in the beginning grows larger as the journey progresses. Enough money and enough power are always just one accomplishment away. Just one more evening away from the family should get you there. Just one more compromise of your principles and beliefs should do the trick. The primary problem with relying on money and power for your happiness is that the only value is in the prize itself. The journey is costly and sometimes that which was meant to be is sacrificed along the way.

Ponder and question your heart until you know and genuinely understand its desires. It is within those desires that you will find your bliss. Is it a strong family? If so, spend every moment of your work day knowing that your salary will provide them with the necessities of life. Spend every moment of your time with them cherishing their presence. Spend every moment of your time away from them knowing that by renewing yourself, you have more to offer them when they are with you.
Is it helping others within your community? Is it traveling and exploring the world? Is it expressing yourself through art or music? Is it devoting your entire life to a specific cause that touches your heart? Whatever it may be, virtually all of your activities each day should support your pursuit of the desires of your heart. Even those that are seemingly unrelated are, in actuality, not.

Your job, while possibly having nothing to do with the meaning you want your life to have, is most likely a necessary component. Remember, it is the salary you earn from this job that allows you the freedom to pursue the more important things in your life. Time spent revitalizing yourself through relaxation, recreation or time alone is also of vital importance. You must stay physically and emotionally strong, focused and healthy. An exhausted mind and body can easily lose sight of the path and stray from the journey.

Think of happiness as a series of activities rather than simply as an emotion. Activities that you choose to pursue each day in everything that you do. Take the time to explore your heart and mind. It is within these that you will find the answers you are seeking. Discover what it is that will bring you true happiness and bliss. Once you do, chase it with all your might.

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