Happiness Formula
Updated: Sep 6
What comes to mind when you hear the word “happiness”? Is there really a formula for happiness?
We all have different ideas of what happiness means. In this blog, I would like to explore some simple questions about happiness and encourage you to think about what truly matters to you.
What comes to mind when you think of the word "happiness"? This blog is based on the content I wrote in the Japanese newsletter sent on July 5, 2024. Everyone has different standards for happiness. However, if you keep the basics in check, you will be able to see what is important to you. In this blog, I would like to talk about the happiness formula.
Tip #1 - What is important for happiness?
I recently watched a video recommended by a friend. In the video, A speaker in a video I watched recently suggested that when our basic needs, such as eating and sleeping, are met, we may feel much more content.
Yet we can sometimes become so focused on work, money or other goals that we neglect these basic needs.
That's certainly true! Due to work and financial obligations, people struggle to meet their basic needs. They often sacrifice eating and sleeping, which leaves them feeling tired and irritable.
Tip #2 - Are there any standards?
The concept of happiness varies across individuals, and it's a subjective measure that only you can determine for yourself.
Even when others seem happy, they may not feel the same way.
Having a lot of money doesn't guarantee happiness and seemingly happy families may have underlying issues.
Happiness is not something that follows a standard or a formula; it's something that you create and experience for yourself.
Some people might already be happy without realising it and only realise its value after losing it.
For instance, in Breaking Bad, the popular American TV series, Walter White's life changes dramatically as he becomes more successful and wealthy. Yet, despite having more money and recognition, he does not necessarily become happier.
It was an intriguing portrayal of how this sense of inferiority couldn't be alleviated by earning more money afterwards.
This made me think about how easily we can compare ourselves with others and measure our happiness by things such as success, money or social status. But perhaps happiness is not about reaching someone else's standard. It may be more about discovering what truly matters to us and what makes our own lives meaningful.
How much does one have to work to feel "happy" when they are already working hard? This was written on a calendar at work.
"Craving acceptance, approval or recognition leaves us hollow." – unknown
What are your thoughts on this concept?
Tip #3 - Happiness from within
Of course, working towards a goal is great. However, it's important to take time to stop and quietly reflect on what is most important to you in order not to lose sight of yourself.
As the word "Ikigai" suggests, having something that you are passionate about will add colour to your life and give you the mental strength to accomplish something.
However, the measure mustn't be someone else's, but yourself.
Tip #4 - Conclusions...
There is no set formula for happiness. The standard of happiness varies from person to person. It's something you decide for yourself and something that makes you happy.
Take some time to think about what makes you happy!
Why not keep a journal to reflect on yourself? By writing down your honest thoughts, it becomes easier to see your true feelings.
In my blog "Let's keep a journal," I talk about tips on how to write. Click the button below for the blog.
Perhaps the most important question is not whether there is a formula for happiness, but what happiness means to you.
Sometimes, taking the time to talk about what you are feeling can help you look at your thoughts and experiences from a different perspective.
If you would like to explore what is important to you and how you are feeling at this point in your life, you are welcome to talk to me.
If you are not sure whether a consultation is right for you, you can start with a free 15-minute chat.
Love and gratitude
Hiroko
