By Justin and Clara Hamel
Do you want to be happy? If you asked a thousand people this question, you would likely get a thousand affirmative responses. It is no surprise that most people desire happiness, so how does it prove to be so elusive and fleeting to many people? It may be the way we define and view happiness. Happiness is often viewed as dependent on external forces … once I get that raise, move into the new house, earn this degree, move to someplace new, etc. It is easy to convince ourselves that the elusivity of happiness is based on external factors. In fact, happiness is an internal state, an emotion. This fact brings out another important truth—like all emotions, happiness is transient. So instead of pursuing happiness, maybe pursuing life satisfaction, contentment and general well-being is a more solid and attainable goal.
Thankfully we know a lot about what contributes to and sustains life satisfaction and contentment. Years of psychological research suggest that this level of fulfillment is less about the accumulation of pleasurable moments and more about the cultivation of gratitude, connection and purpose. Cultivating these elements provides a foundation that can keep us steady when what is around us feels turbulent and difficult.
This week, let’s focus on gratitude. Gratitude plays a powerful role in shaping how we experience our lives. Gratitude can help shift our attention toward what is positive and nurturing in the moment. It is not about denying hardship, but refocusing on what we can lean into during hardship. Consistent practice of gratitude changes the way the brain processes experiences, reinforcing a sense of fulfillment instead of lack. This shift helps become us more attuned to what is and will continue to sustain us even when life is not easy.
Building a gratitude practice is a simple process that only requires consistency. Upon waking is a great time to start this practice as it sets a positive tone for the day. You may wake up with gratitude for your warm, cozy bed, the sunlight gently streaming through the window, or the sound of the birds outside. Over time our mind is directed to seek out what we are thankful for and these simple moments of appreciation accumulate to provide resilience and contentment for the day.
When gratitude becomes a daily practice, happiness no longer feels like something to chase or attain. Instead, it begins to emerge naturally through quiet appreciation for the life we are already living.
Dr. Justin Hamel and Clara Hamel have a combined over 30 years of experience in health fields. Reach them at 1° Performance & Longevity, located at 46 N. Central Park Plz., Suite 101, in Jacksonville, on Facebook or by phone at 217-243-6358.
