What constitutes happiness for you? The answer you give will probably be different from the next person because it’s such a subjective emotion isn’t it? Nevertheless, it’s one that we all want to experience as much as possible.
Expectation plays a huge role in what we think will bring us happiness. The oxford dictionary defines it as good fortune; pleasure; contentment; and joy. But who is to say that one person’s good fortune will bring another the same.
Managing your expectations is the secret to experiencing happiness. Ask yourself, what is it that I really need in life? Do I need that fancy sports car, the expensive clothing brands, or a house that is far too big? The answer is no. It may bring some people temporary happiness, but surely they’re just masking over a problem with a quick fix?
Happiness comes from within and can be something that needs work, especially if you have fallen into the materialism trap. Western culture teaches us that happiness is working hard, earning money, and settling down with a mortgage. When you earn enough of it, you will be able to buy things that will complement your ego and make you feel better about yourself; or even change the way you look. Do you think that is true happiness?
To me, it seems that we are striving for the wrong things in life. Firstly, these days, the average family will need to ensure that both parents are working to support their children, pay the bills, and all other necessities. They will go to work for most of the day, leave their children with a carer and miss out on huge portions of their child’s adolescence. This sounds more like a breakdown of the family unit than anything else, which is the opposite of happiness!
Some people are able to experience blissful states of living without owning a thing. How is that possible? Surely they won’t be able to live a comfortable life without all of our western mod cons and materialistic treasures. Well, people can, and people do.
Whilst some rich banker is sitting in a five-star Michelin restaurant in West London, complaining about the quality of his £80.00 Sirloin steak, there is a child who is over the moon about the fact they are able to fill their stomach with plain rice that same evening.
Who is happiest? The person who needs less to feel happy of course! It is easier for them to obtain a state of bliss or joy because they have a greater understanding of what happiness actually is. It is that feeling of contentment that you get when reality meets your expectations.
There is a tribe that lives in the Amazon Jungle called the Piraha, who are thought to be the happiest people on the planet. American linguist Daniel Everett traveled to the tribe to try to convert them in 1977 but was actually converted himself.
Simply put, these people do not stress about anything non-important. They do not have the complexities of modern living, such as bills, time, or even money. There is no hierarchy, no theft, no crime, nor do they have prejudices or the concept of ownership of property. Their language is simple and highly effective and uses hardly any words associated with time.
Maybe we need to learn a few things from the Piraha!
