As I patiently waited in a hospital waiting room, I watched a TV programme that featured a female artist painting a piece of a landscape with bright colours and, most importantly, with a sense of joy and calmness.
The look on her face spelt out happiness with a capital H. She felt fulfilled, with a smile of contentment. Happiness stands out as the ultimate goal for many individuals in the pursuit of a fulfilling life.
Here was a woman, probably middle-aged, armed with colours, her hands carefully guarded the paintbrush on a canvas, and she looked fulfilled and happy.
But what is happiness? People often say, “I just want to be happy.” But is happiness a destination we stumble upon by chance, or is it something we can actively cultivate and create in our lives?
The truth is that happiness is an art that requires intention, dedication, practice, and a mindset shift embroidered with purpose.
Happiness is not a stroke of luck or a random occurrence; it is intentional. It is a state of being that can be intentionally crafted through conscious choices and actions. Just like an artist meticulously selects their colours, their unique style that guides each stroke of a brush to create a masterpiece, we can choose our thoughts, behaviours, and attitudes to paint a picture of happiness in our lives each day. This realisation empowers us, as it puts the brush in our hands, giving us control over the masterpiece of our lives.
Each day is a blessing but not a guarantee. If you are lucky to be able to take in a breath of fresh air without thinking about it, that means you are alive and have an opportunity to paint a masterpiece today. In pursuit of happiness, it is not too much to ask of yourself to live each day as if it were your last chance to create a masterpiece. This journey of self-discovery and personal growth is what makes life truly fulfilling and inspiring.
Happiness comes from within.
I believe that if you can find a reason to be alive, you will be happy to be alive. That is a fundamental aspect of mastering the art of happiness. It is an understanding that happiness is an inside job. Just as an image of a finished piece of artwork is from the mind of an artist, so should you, in your own right, think about what you want to bring about and go for it.
Do not seek happiness from others, as they may fail to deliver. Do not attach happiness to your possessions as possessions could vanish. External circumstances and factors can only bring temporary joy, but raw minerals for true happiness are buried deep down within each of us.
Hence, happiness can only come from within. It stems from self-awareness, gratitude, acceptance, and a sense of purpose. By cultivating these internal qualities, you can build a strong foundation for lasting happiness that is not easily shaken by external events or pressure.
Be present in the moment, appreciate the simple joys of life, and let go of worries about the past or future that you cannot control.
Savour the beauty of everyday experiences, connect with nature when you can, connect with others on a deeper level, and find peace despite what life throws at you.
Life always has a way of throwing back at you what you dish out. Cultivate meaningful connections, show empathy and kindness, and surround yourself with supportive and uplifting people who can enrich your lives and champion your course.
I am dedicated to pursuing my happiness by creating my masterpiece through my work, as I strive every day to mend family relationships. I urge you to discover your own masterpiece with a passion that will bring joy and happiness into your life today.
By: Chris Kolade
Principal Consultant
United-In-Separation®
https://www.unitedinseparation.com
