Hello Reader,
How are you?
I didn't send out last week's newsletter due to the school holidays, but truthfully, I also needed some time for soul-searching. So, it feels fitting to come back this week and revisit the question of why I believe I am happy. After all, that's the essence of these newsletters. Yet, they often delve into topics like money (or the lack of it), consumerism, parenting challenges, conflicts, and failures. It might make these newsletters seem like they're coming from someone very unhappy.
But here's the thing: there's a distinction between feeling happy in the present moment and leading a genuinely happy life. Feeling happy now is about positive emotions, awareness, and perhaps a bit of letting go. It's about experiencing joy, humour, or a serene positivity in the current moment and being fully aware of it. It's about pausing and savouring those moments. It's about intentionally creating happiness whenever possible.
The second aspect is more long-term. It involves having a vision for the future, being able to plan for it, and having, or at least believing in, opportunities that will come at the right time. This kind of happiness requires investment in health, nurturing relationships, and cultivating a positive mindset. It's about having faith, trust, and hope. It's about enduring storms and overcoming challenges because we have a dream or a purpose, giving our lives meaning.
Reflecting upon challenges (as I often do in these newsletters) is a crucial step in nurturing our long-term happiness. It provides us with the opportunity to either overcome these challenges or learn valuable lessons from them, both of which contribute significantly to our personal growth and overall well-being.
I admit that sometimes find myself getting lost in this long-term perspective and forgetting about the importance of short-term happiness. I'm in the process of learning how to embrace both aspects, and you're on this journey with me as you read my newsletters.
As always, have a happy week!
Anja
PS: You know someone who feels similar? Please share this email.
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