Looking around the world today, we see that happiness has become a rare commodity. We may have wealth, but no real happiness. We may have power and position but, again, no experience of inner joy. Perhaps we even have relationships that are loyal and rewarding and yet have a feeling that there is something missing inside. The lack that we experience is actually nothing to do with the world outside but rather the insecurity and the emptiness of spirit within.
Positive feelings and emotions have a beneficial impact on our physiology, so that our physical health improves. Our emotional well-being is strengthened, which allows inter-personal relationships to develop in a positive direction. The quality of our work is improved and the contribution that we make to society is generally enhanced. So, on all levels, to create a positive feeling of happiness is going to be highly beneficial.
There are five ways in which we can generate happiness within the self.
1. Firstly, it is important to disassociate happiness with the acquisition of external property, finance and facilities, or even prestige and position. It is clear that we may have all of these and still not be happy. When we go on an inner journey, we begin to understand that our own thoughts and feelings are the key to being able to generate happiness and maintain it. Understanding that I can be the master of my mind, and move my thoughts in the direction of my choice allows me to take responsibility for my own inner state of happiness. I then no longer wait for people or situations to change but create my own thoughts and feelings. I am able to make a conscious choice as to how I respond and react to people and situations.
2. We begin with thoughts and feelings but, of course, this leads to words and actions. Pure, positive feelings generated by good thoughts allow me to share words of empowerment, inspiration and encouragement. Our words create a huge impact on others—and also on ourselves. When we uplift others with our words, we also uplift ourselves. Giving benefit to others with our words, we receive their blessings and support. An atmosphere created by good feelings and pure words is one in which I experience happiness but also share happiness with others.
3. India is a land in which we believe in the power of karma. When we have been able to give something to others, the return of that is happiness for ourselves. The giving can happen in many different ways. It may be through kind words, it may be through a smile, it may be through giving of ourselves in terms of time. Giving my co-operation at a moment of need will always be remembered and will bring me blessings. Yes, of course, using the financial resources that I have to be able to serve others is also an act of charity that brings me happiness today and benefit in the future. So, good karma is definitely a way in which we create happiness.
4. Using all the resources that I have—my time, my thoughts, my money, my talents—in a worthwhile way brings happiness. Wasting any of these brings a repercussion of disempowerment and sorrow. Using things in the right way, a beneficial way, strengthens the soul and brings abundance.
5. Appreciation of all that I have allows me to focus on the gifts that have come to me from God, the universe, my destiny, and allows me to remain happy. So often we have a list of desires for the things we want to have and we do not appreciate so much what we already have. Appreciation allows my heart to be filled with gratitude. In gratitude there is always happiness and well-being. Without gratitude there can never really be a sense of contentment.
Making time for the self each day, to create the right consciousness, the consciousness of the inner being with its natural virtues and powers, and beginning the day with happiness is the foundation for a life that’s going to be worthwhile for the self and of benefit to the world.
B.K. Jayanti is Additional Administrative Head of the Brahma Kumaris.
