Will This Thought Bring Me Happiness? July 13, 2011
Posted by nrhatch in Happiness, Mindfulness, Spirit & Ego.comments closed
Hardship in life is inevitable, but much of our suffering is self-created.
We perpetuate pain, and keep it alive, by replaying our hurts over and over again.
We are overly sensitive and overreact to minor annoyances in order to feed our anger, jealousy, or fear.
Feeding negative mental states (anger, jealousy, rage, envy, greed, hatred) is destructive and robs us of inner peace and tranquility.
When we choose to react negatively to situations which could be viewed more positively, we are increasing our suffering by destroying our peace of mind.
We can minimize our suffering, and increase our happiness, by replacing our negative thought patterns with a more positive perspective on things ~ for example, by viewing the world with a greater degree of kindness, tolerance, contentment, forgiveness, and compassion.
The process is simple:
(1) We must “tune in” and become aware of our thoughts.
(2) If we are dwelling on negative thoughts, we must ask a simple question, Will this thought bring me happiness?
(3) If the answer is “no,” we must “change the channel” and focus on more positive thoughts.
Lasting happiness, or peace of mind, is not tied to external events. It is not what is happening around you, but what is happening within you, that matters.
Asking the question, will this thought bring me happiness, whenever we are facing a choice about how to view a situation, provides necessary clarity.
It shifts the focus from what we are denying ourselves (i.e., the “luxury” of being upset over some minor incident or infraction) to what we are giving ourselves (peace of mind and serenity).
Quote: Hardship is inevitable; misery is optional.
No rules. Just write!
Related posts: The Art of Happiness * Cultivating Happiness . . . not Hedonism * Dalai Lama: Inner Peace & Happiness
Spirit Lights The Way 