In life there are many things that we want, but ultimately it is the desire to be sincerely happy that most people want either consciously or unconsciously. To bring more lasting happiness into our lives there are various things to consider.

1. We should make a conscious decision to be Happy. Sometimes we can subconsciously cherish depression and negative thoughts. We can only be happy when we are fully committed to bringing more happiness into our lives

2. Pay careful attention to your thoughts. Thoughts have a powerful impact on our state of mind. If we are constantly engaging in negative thoughts, about ourselves or others, then we can not expect lasting happiness. If a depressed thought comes to your mind, pay no attention but let it go.

3. Do not expect from others. Often unhappiness comes from the fact other people do not behave as we would like them to. Unfortunately wherever we go in the world, this will be the case. However if we wait for the world to be a perfect place first, we shall never achieve happiness. If people do the wrong thing, try to maintain a forgiving attititude. We should not let others actions affect our state of mind, in their own way everyone is striving for a better life. Always we should try to maintain a positive loving attitude to others.

I am very happy
Because I have conquered myself
And not the world.
I am very happy
Because I have loved the world
And not myself.

- Sri Chinmoy

4. Do not let criticism poison your mind. Often we are subject to criticism and this can leave us feeling hurt. However whatever people say it is upto us whether we allow thoughts to harm ourselves. We could adopt an attitude that the criticism is as insignificant as a small ant. If we give it no attention we will not be upset.

5. Try to minimise desires. Often we feel that if we could only get an extra £100,000 or buy an extra car, all our problems will disappear. However this is not likely to be the case. Often when one desire is fulfilled it merely increases our desire for more, we do not feel an inner satisfaction. As George Bernard Shaw appropiately said:

“There are two tragedies in life. One is to lose your heart’s desire. The other is to gain it.”

6. Choose activities that give you a sense of satisfaction. Often unhappiness stems from boredom. One of the best cures for depression is to become absorbed in an activity. When we are busy our mind becomes occupied and is not as prone to depressed ideas. At the same time as not being idle do not allow yourself to become overburdened with pressures. Do 1 thing at a time and try to be relaxed.

7. Meditation. Meditation is not just sitting still for 10 minutes. In meditation we try to calm the mind and then empty the mind of thoughts. If we can master these meditation exercises we will feel our own inner peace. Through silent meditation we can tap into the source of inner happiness that is deep within ourselves.

Richard Pettinger
http://www.richardpettinger.com/sri_chinmoy