For most of us, we think we have a real understanding of what keeps us from being truly happy. We believe it’s because we are stressed from work, overwhelmed by bills, do not have enough energy, do not get enough sleep and are constantly being forced to settle for things or give up things. That’s not the case. The reason we are finding it so difficult to be happy is because we hold on to the excuses that keep us from doing the things that would bring joy to our lives. Here are some of those excuses:
- I don’t have time to exercise: Exercise has nothing to do with hitting the gym for an hour. It’s about getting outside, getting some sun, burning a few calories and getting your body moving. Take the stairs at work, go for a short walk on your lunch break. When you get home, take a walk around the neighborhood before you settle in for dinner.
- Eating healthy is too expensive: If you are feeding a family of four, a salad, four chicken breasts and four sweet potatoes will cost you less than $20. How much would you spend if everyone wanted pizza or fast food?
- I’m too busy to get more sleep: How much time did you spend on the couch or in bed last night watching television shows? If you usually got to bed at 11, start the process of getting ready at 9. Then at around 9:30, start reading a book rather than watching television. This should help you calm down and get ready to go to sleep around 10, giving you an extra hour of sleep.
- I don’t have enough money to do things I enjoy: This is a fair point as many struggle to save up. However, you don’t have to go to Italy every weekend to enjoy yourself. Start planning weekend trips to local spots like parks, the beach or lake and enjoy local attractions that are free or very affordable.
Once you realize the things that are keeping you from being happy are the very things you cling to, it will be easier to let them go and try a healthier alternative that will benefit you and help you to reach that ultimate goal of happiness.