Sources of happiness

All of us seek happiness. It can be in the form of a feeling, emotion, sensation, imagination, or thoughts ( words, concepts, ideas). It can be physical, mental, or emotional. But all these forms of happiness are ephemeral, not long-lasting. The mind also likes variety. It will get bored with one form of happiness. So we have to keep moving from one source of happiness to another. We will be spending an entire lifetime chasing these forms of happiness. For some, this will be their goal in life. There is no destination to reach. It is a constant pursuit.

But there is one other form of happiness that generally goes unnoticed. It is the joy of being. Our being or presence is always with us but we don’t give it any attention. It is not a fun place to be, according to the mind. The mind seems more interesting as there is variety. But in being or presence there can be no unhappiness, unlike the mind. Being is silent and peaceful. It is not ephemeral. It does not come and go. It is here to stay. It is free of content.

Ideally, one should alternate between being and mind and maintain a healthy balance between the two. Our total absorption in the contents of the mind ignoring the contentless ever-present background creates imbalance.

Some sources of happiness:

Happy thoughts

Eating

Traveling

Conversation

Music

Drama

Movies

Television

Gossip

Success

Praise

Recognition

Sleep

Animals

Nature

Games

Fantasy

Reading

Writing

Sports

Wealth

Rituals

Singing

Dancing

Possessions

Driving

Good news

Reminiscing

Jokes

Gardening

Chanting

Retreats

Art

Thinking

Meditation

Skydiving

Shopping

Walking

Running

Stand up comedy

Novels

Charity

Service

Teaching

Poetry

Literature

Hobbies

Gadgets

Festivals

Vacations

Functions

Seminars

Intimacy

Profession

Security

Fame

Designation

Status

Promotion

Talents

Skills

Insights

Wisdom

Knowledge

Silence

Wit

Discovery

Invention

Kindness

Luck

Windfalls

Gifts

Good Health

People

Fond memories

Beauty

Getting back something lost

Passing an examination

Getting a job

Meeting targets

Meeting deadlines

Escapes

Magic

Entertainment

Falling in love

Power

Control

Foresight

Epiphany

Revelations

Relief from pain

Winning

Comfort

Grace

Repartee

Being forgiven

Being acquitted

Compassion

Generosity

Physical sensations

Good parents

Good relatives

Helpful colleagues

Mature spouse

A good circle of friends

Responsible children

Responsible Government

Pleasant weather

Friendly neighbors

Satisfying job

Efficient medical care

Good teachers

Great guru

Celebrations

Partying

Creative ideas

Environment

Lineage

Education

Alma mater

Peace of mind

Energy

Being helped

Respect

Being adored

Discourses

Debates

Philosophy

Fighting for a cause

Ideology

Identity

Understanding boss

Feelings of superiority

Vanquishing an enemy

Victory

Books

Attachment

Stories

Tradition

Culture

Knowing famous people

Achievements

Awards and medals

Sense of humor

Being proved right

When expectations are met

When wishes are fulfilled

When things go according to plan

Motherhood

Financial freedom

Sense of pride

Prayer

Worship

Devotion

Pilgrimage

Growth

Getting back stuck money

Recovery from illness

Apologies

Reunion

Bonding

Gifts

Creative visualization

Scriptures

Blessings

Honesty

Hugs

Approval

Being a somebody