Happiness in Its Total - Only You Can Judge You

To say that one wants to be happy in life may bring about differing ideals and perspectives as the term to be happy may differ from one person to another. Being happy is a state of mind that only one person can answer; and that is you. Why? Because happiness in its total - only you can judge you. In the sense that relates to personal development, happiness is considered individualistic and is reflective of the person’s current state. As this is person specific, no one from the outside can determine your current state of happiness, but they can help to influence that state to help make you a happier person.

Dependent on the person, their values, and the goals that they have in life, happiness can be achieved through many different perspectives. When thinking about this concept more you must be cognizant about your own defining purpose in life. Ultimately, you define what drives you and what you want to achieve out of life so this definition has to come from within. Does your happiness come from financial stability and security? Does it come from the personal success stories of your children? Does it stem from some other achieving goal in life that drives you to want to succeed?

When looking at your own inner self and trying to define personal satisfaction, one may consider the following aspects in life:

- Materialistic possessions; This brings up much for discussion as society, the media, and people in general assume that possessions automatically create a happy state of mind. For some, this may be the case, but for others it may not be. Some people that see it one way or another may ultimately change their own perspectives over-time.

Some people would attest that having a big house, owning fancy cars, or being able to take exotic vacations make them happy. This may be true, but in time the nostalgia of this perspective can change as the realization may occur that money cannot buy everything. In this case, the expression of wanting what you have instead of not having what you want would seem relevant.

- Relationships; A healthy relationship that is enduring may produce many positive aspects in one's life. These positives may translate into happiness if your overriding goals are reflective of this, but if not, it can give you a false sense of satisfaction. On the other hand, some people find that they would rather be alone than go through some of the trials and tribulations that come with a failed relationship. This occurs with many who have been in a relationship that did not work out as they are faced with the conclusion that they would be happier while being alone. Some people may even fear being alone so they end up being unhappy in a relationship so they do not have to face their fears.

Gratitude; this brings a wealth of satisfaction to some people. Being gracious is an extension of one's self to serve the needs, desires, and salvation of others, and is typically viewed as an unselfish act. To show gratitude can be done in many ways as it can also be constituted by minimal effort on the part of the person being gracious. A simple Thank You is something that goes along way and takes little or no effort to accomplish. Happiness can occur as a result, but more so when the act is considered pure and natural.

Remember guys, happiness in its total - only you can judge you, not other people, even your parent.

Article Source: EzineArticles