HAPPINESS IS AN INSIDE JOB

HAPPINESS IS AN INSIDE JOB

Throughout my life, I chased happiness through external means, believing that if I attained certain things or achieved specific goals, I would finally find true contentment. From seeking temporary solace in drugs and alcohol to pursuing fame and status as a DJ, I constantly looked outside myself for validation and happiness. However, I soon realised that these external sources of happiness were fleeting and ultimately left me empty.

The world bombards us with messages that happiness can be found in external achievements, possessions, or relationships. Society conditions us to believe that we will achieve lasting happiness if we acquire enough material wealth, success, or admiration. But my journey has taught me that true happiness is not dependent on external circumstances; it is an inside job.

I aim to share the transformative insights I have gained from my pursuit of happiness and the realisation that it can only be found within. Drawing on the wisdom and teachings of authors such as Michael Singer, Eckhart Tolle, David R. Hawkins, and Steve Biddulph, I will explore key takeaways from their books that have reshaped my understanding of happiness. By understanding the importance of inner fulfilment, you can embark on your journey of self-discovery and find lasting happiness within yourself.

My journey of seeking happiness through external means led me down various paths. From indulging in drugs and alcohol to gain temporary euphoria to pursuing fame and status as a DJ, I constantly sought external validation to fill the void within. However, I soon discovered that these pursuits were mere illusions, providing only temporary satisfaction and ultimately leaving me unfulfilled.

Society often equates material possessions with happiness, leading us to believe that acquiring more things will bring us lasting joy. But no matter how many possessions we accumulate, they cannot change our inner state. True happiness comes not from external sources but deep inner peace and contentment.

Similarly, pursuing success, fame, and status can be alluring, as they will bring us the desired happiness. Yet, I discovered the joy was short-lived even when I achieved certain milestones or gained recognition. External achievements are temporary, and their happiness quickly fades unless we cultivate inner fulfilment.

I began questioning my beliefs and perceptions about happiness by reading books by authors like Michael Singer, Eckhart Tolle, David R. Hawkins, and Steve Biddulph. These authors emphasised the importance of turning inward and finding happiness within ourselves rather than relying on external circumstances or achievements.

Eckhart Tolle's teachings on mindfulness and presence resonated deeply with me. I learned that true happiness could be found in fully embracing the present moment rather than constantly chasing future desires or dwelling on past regrets. By grounding ourselves in the here and now, we can experience the richness of life and find contentment within each moment.

Michael Singer's insights on surrender and letting go of attachments significantly influenced my understanding of happiness. I realised that my attachments to external outcomes, possessions, or identities were causing suffering and preventing me from experiencing true joy. I found more profound happiness and fulfilment by releasing these attachments and embracing inner freedom.

David R. Hawkins' teachings on the levels of consciousness and the scale of emotions highlighted the importance of cultivating inner peace. I discovered that true happiness depends not on external circumstances but on inner peace and contentment. By raising our consciousness and embracing higher emotions, we can experience lasting happiness and radiate positivity to those around us.

In my quest for happiness, I embarked on a journey of self-discovery and self-care. I found solace in nature, breathwork, solitude and self-reflection, which helped me cultivate inner happiness and develop a stronger connection with myself. 

Steve Biddulph's writings on authenticity and aligning with our true selves resonated deeply with me. I realised that true happiness comes from living in alignment with our values, passions, and purpose. By embracing our authentic selves and pursuing what truly brings us joy, we can experience a profound sense of fulfilment and happiness.

One of the critical lessons I learned is the impermanence of external circumstances. Everything in life is subject to change, but our inner state can remain steadfast. By embracing the impermanence of external factors and finding stability within ourselves, we can navigate life's ups and downs with grace and find lasting happiness.

My experiences have taught me that happiness cannot be found alone in external pursuits. Chasing drugs and alcohol, fame and status, or even losing weight did not bring me the lasting happiness I sought. True happiness is an inside job, found within ourselves through self-discovery, self-care, and embracing the present moment.

By delving into the teachings of authors like Michael Singer, Eckhart Tolle, David R. Hawkins, and Steve Biddulph, I have learned the importance of turning inward, letting go of attachments, and nurturing inner peace. The key to finding lasting happiness lies in embracing our authentic selves, aligning with our values and passions, and understanding that external circumstances are transient. Reading and understanding was the easy part of this process. The natural and challenging work comes from implementing and living these practices. 

Remember that happiness is not a destination to be reached but a state of being cultivated from within.