Avoid Having Them)

“I am determined to be cheerful and happy in whatever situation I may find

myself. For I have learned that the greater part of our misery or unhappiness is
determined not by our circumstance but by our disposition.” – Martha Washington,
wife of 1st U.S. President George Washington
Happiness is something that we all strive to attain. As human beings we can accept the
fact that: (a) life is short, and (b) unhappiness makes our lives difficult. As is common
knowledge, our habits have a big impact on the quality of life that we live; specifically,
these habits directly impact our happiness (or lack thereof). To make a clear distinction,
there is a strong difference between clinical depression and chronic unhappiness.
Depression is a chemical imbalance in the brain, while unhappiness is a disposition that
is often acquired through how we choose to live our lives. Similar to depression,
however, unhappiness can be diagnosed and treated.

HERE ARE 12 HABITS THAT CAN CAUSE

UNHAPPINESS, ALL OF WHICH CAN BE AVOIDED.
1. CHRONIC COMPLAINING
Happy and successful people do not complain much. On the other side, it seems that
chronic complainers always have something negative to say… even when those around
them are happy! The bottom line: we all have different circumstances that we are given
in this lifetime, but in the end these circumstances are ours – fair or unfair, wanted or
unwanted. Instead, seek solutions to problems instead of complaining, which leads to
nowhere.

2. BEING CRITICAL – OF SELF AND OTHERS

How we talk to ourselves shapes our self-image, for better or worse. Self-worth is an
essential component to our happiness, and feeling good about ourselves is a right that
we all have. Realize when mistakes are made, accept them, and move on…don’t
engage in negative self-talk. Further, respect the inherent differences of others and
recognize their right to live happily and without undue criticism.

3. LIVING BEYOND MEANS

We live in a materialistic society, one where we are constantly bombarded with
advertisements for the latest car, gadget, or credit card; all promising an easier, more
fulfilling existence. Don’t believe it for a second. While purchasing a new product may
provide a needed emotional boost, it doesn’t last. Ever heard the term “buyer’s
remorse”? It exists for a reason. Instead, seek out something to do that doesn’t involve
whipping out a piece of plastic – exercise, reading, sightseeing, etc. – anything brings
satisfaction without the debt.

4. NEGATIVE ADDICTIONS
Most things are good in moderation – food, a drink or two, entertainment… it’s when
these things take center stage in our lives that it becomes a problem. Unfortunately,
many good people have met their end through addictive habits, especially through
dependence on alcohol and drugs. A great preventative measure and remedy to these
addictions? Finding and living our passions to the greatest extent possible (see #8).

5. REGRETTING THE PAST

Regret is not only useless, it can be extremely harmful. Research continues to show
that repetitive, negative thoughts about decisions made in the past in often a precursor
to chronic stress and depression. According to Psychology Today, there are four ways
to cope with regret: (1) learn from mistakes but don’t dwell, (2) if nothing can be
changed about the situation to let it go, (3) make sure too much blame is not being
undertaken, and(4) reframing the situation more positively.

6. WORRYING ABOUT THE FUTURE

We only have so much say in what our future holds. This is not meant to disempower
(quite the opposite); rather it is stating simple truth. What we can do is live in the
present while fully exercising our God-given abilities and talents, enabling
and empowering us to live a happier existence. There’s that phrase again: living in the
present. Face difficulties as they arise and let them go. Enjoy the beautiful things in life
and experience them fully…be present.

 7. BEING DRIVEN BY FEAR

Yes, fear can be an enabler to unhappiness. To fully understand this, we have to again
go back to being present. Quite simply, we can’t allow fear of the unknown (and/or the
unavoidable) to cripple our quality of life. Fear is a negative thought process that is often
on auto pilot. Remember: we are not our negative thoughts. We are not fear, worry,
anxiety, or any other negative thought process.

8. DELAYING GOALS AND DREAMS

It’s relatively easy and effortless to get caught up in the routine of life: working, eating,
sleeping, maybe even a day or two of doing something fun or relaxing. But here’s the
thing: by not directing our talents and passions toward a positive and tangible goal, we
potentially discard something great before its realization. The hardest part of living out
our goals and dreams is taking the first step. After building a game plan taking that first
step, only then can we see the possibilities.

 9. GOSSIPING
Nothing exudes unhappiness and insecurity more than negative small talk about
someone else. After all, why would a happy, confident person engage in something that
is of no benefit? They wouldn’t. Gossip is something to be left to the kids at recess, not
to adults attempting to make their lives (and others!) better.

10. HOLDING GRUDGES

Similar to other negative emotions, animosity is a needless weight on our backs. We are
all witness to the negative behaviors of other people and can become (sometimes
justifiably) angered as a result. But remember: this isn’t about their ignorant behavior;
it’s about your happiness. Either forgive, forget, or ignore… and move on with your life.

11. EATING POORLY

Ingesting nutritionally-bankrupt food is all about immediate gratification. It’s certainly not
about feeling good long-term, as eating poorly can result in bad health, weight gain,
depression, lack of energy and decreased productivity; while having a well-balanced
diet results in an entirely opposite effect – more energy, a healthy weight, mental
alertness, and increased productivity. Eat right, look great, and feel great.

12. EXPANDING OUR PROBLEMS

When we experience unhappiness and discontent, our first reaction is almost entirely
emotional. In other words, we blow things completely out of proportion. After all, we still
have that darned “lizard brain” (amygdala) – the epicenter of negative emotions.
Instead, just take a step back, look at the problem objectively (with minimal emotion),
and focus on a solution!