Published: 4 Aug 2020

The best way to find happiness is by not looking for it. Happiness is a good thing, but valuing it and trying to find it is not. Studies have shown that people who say their goal is to be happy are the least happy ones in the lot.

For an analogy, let’s take Happiness as sunlight. But, when we experience the sunlight directly, our eyes get hurt. The best way to experience happiness is through indirect ways. In the case of sunlight, it’s not the direct white light that we experience, but it’s about the elements (rainbow colors) that constitute the white light.

The elements for happiness are SPIRE.

S = Spiritual Wellbeing

It’s about finding meaning and purpose in what we do at work and at home. Waking up with some purpose makes it easy for us to handle tough things during the day.

P = Physical Wellbeing

Exercise makes our bodies active. More than the stress, the problem occurs due to the “lack of refreshment**”.** We need to allow enough time regularly to refresh ourselves. Taking a regular vacation and being away from work during vacation help improve physical wellbeing.

I = Intellectual Wellbeing

Be curious, and ask interesting questions. It’s not just about asking but about being engaged with the material: text, art, or nature. That makes us happier and studies have shown we tend to live longer.

R = Relational Wellbeing

Spending quality time with loved ones and people who love us is a great predictor of happiness. These are the moments that inspire us, give us the strength to handle hard times, and are cherished over a long time.