The two biggest happiness illusions

Let’s explore, just for the moment, the two biggest obstacles to happiness.

The first major obstacle is the illusion that happiness should just magically happen to us if we are a good person, work hard, love our neighbor (etc. etc.). We think happiness should just flow into our lives as a reward or benefit for making a sincere effort. Even if we are a great human being, it doesn’t have a thing to do with our level of happiness. I know, this seems so unfair! But we have to accept this fact and move on.

Now that we have accepted the first obstacle, the second one is also a hard pill to swallow! The illusion of “if only” happiness. We all know this one: “If only I had a better job”, “If only I was married”, “If only I was rich”, “If only I was thin or prettier or more popular.” This is looking for happiness in all the wrong places. We often anticipate that when we achieve any of these wishes we will feel so incredibly happy! Guess what? ANTICIPATION IS ALWAYS BETTER THEN THE ACTUAL EVENT.

We can learn how to be happy just by being! That means focusing on mindfulness and being truly present in the everyday moments of your life. This is where you will find true happiness.