WE'RE all familiar with the saying "Happiness is a journey, not a destination". But the current situation we're living in makes it hard for us to feel happy all the time. The worries, concerns and uncertainties can be overwhelming at times. While the light at the end of the tunnel is getting brighter, we're not there yet and there's no guarantee that it will happen until it happens.
In the meantime, what do we do? Should we wait for the whole pandemic thing to be over before we can start enjoying life again? A friend shared a thought-provoking quote recently. It said, "Happiness is where you are now, or nowhere at all. It's not a new relationship, it's not a new job, it's not a completed goal, and it's not a new car. Until you give up on the idea that happiness is somewhere else, it will never be where you are."
Taking this into the context of the pandemic, the concept should still be applicable. We shouldn't let the negative and gloomy outlook to alter our concept of happiness. "All of this negative energy taxes the mind, body and spirit," wrote Carla Marie Manly, a bestselling author and clinical psychologist, in an article published in today.com. Adding, she said: "As such, it's vital to intentionally counteract this toxic, fearful energy with a conscientious investment in creating happiness."
Taking care of our mental health is equally as important as taking care of our physical health. The good news is that it's not that difficult to do. As parents, we have many opportunities to create happy moments as we ride the pandemic.
CREATING HAPPY MOMENTS
Begin with something simple and basic. Admiral William McRaven, former United States Navy four-star admiral, and now a bestselling author and leadership speaker, said: "If you want to change the world, start by making your bed."
Why did a four-star admiral propose such a simple thing? Well, if you make your bed every morning, you'd have accomplished the first task of the day. It'll give you a small sense of pride, and encourage you to do another task, and another, and another.
By the end of the day, that one task completed would have turned into many tasks completed. Those achievements will make us feel happy, not because of the results, but because of the actions we took to make them happen.
It's time to gather the family and organise a little home makeover. Throw away the clutter and make space for new things that bring us joy. Keep the momentum going by doing physical exercise together. Get up and get moving.
Researchers from the University of Connecticut (UConn) in Mansfield found that simply going for a leisurely walk can improve our mood and boost subjective well-being, particularly for adults who are normally sedentary. We all can do that regularly for 15 to 20 minutes.
Happiness is really in our hands. Yes, it won't be an easy ride but we're all capable of finding ultimate happiness if we start taking responsibility for our emotions. Even if the country and schools are reopening, there'll be some time before we can truly return to the old norm. Don't wait until then to feel happier again.
Zaid Mohamad coaches and trains parents to experience happier homes and more productive workplaces. Reach him at [email protected].
