HAPPINESS 101

The Path to Finding Your Joy

3 Pillars of Success

Hello Xqisit Community... Welcome to another edition of HAPPINESS 101...

Today, I want to share a simple yet profound message to help you realise that without a clear understanding of what will make you happy, you risk becoming like a lost soul blowing about like a plastic bag in the wind. Your biggest hope might be to avoid getting stuck in the branches of some dying tree. Let's explore the moral of a timeless story to uncover the essence of happiness and how to find it.

- Happiness depends upon ourselves -

Two seeds lay side by side in the fertile spring soil...

The first seed said: "I want to grow! I want to send my roots deep into the soil beneath me and thrust my sprouts through the earth's crust above me. I want to unfurl my tender buds like banners to announce the arrival of spring. I want to feel the warmth of the sun on my face and the blessing of the morning dew on my petals!" And so she grew.

The second seed said: "I am afraid. If I send my roots into the ground below, I don't know what I will encounter in the dark. If I push my way through the hard soil above me, I may damage my delicate sprouts. What if I let my buds open and a snail tries to eat them? And if I were to open my blossoms, a small child may pull me from the ground. No, it is much better for me to wait until it is safe." And so she waited.

A yard hen scratching around in the early spring ground for food found the waiting seed and promptly ate it.

The Moral of the Story

This simple tale holds a powerful message about the nature of happiness and the choices we make in our pursuit of it. The first seed, despite the risks and uncertainties, chose to grow and experience life. In contrast, the second seed allowed fear to dictate its actions, ultimately leading to its demise.

Key Lessons:

1. Embrace Growth and Change: The first seed teaches us that true happiness comes from growth and change. By sending roots deep into the soil and reaching for the sun, it embraced life's uncertainties and thrived. Similarly, we must be willing to grow, evolve, and face challenges head-on to find happiness.
2. Overcome Fear: The second seed's fate highlights the dangers of letting fear control our decisions. Fear of the unknown, fear of failure, and fear of getting hurt can paralyse us. To find happiness, we must confront our fears and take action despite them.
3. Live Fully: Happiness is not about avoiding risks but about living fully and experiencing all that life has to offer. The warmth of the sun, the blessing of the morning dew, and the beauty of blooming flowers are rewards for those who dare to grow.

What Happiness Means to Me

Happiness is a deeply personal and subjective experience. For me, happiness is about living a life of purpose and fulfilment. It's about:

• Setting Goals: Having clear, meaningful goals gives my life direction and purpose. It helps me wake up each day with a sense of excitement and motivation.
• Connecting with Others: Building strong, positive relationships with family, friends, and the community brings joy and support into my life.
• Embracing Positivity: Maintaining a positive mindset and focusing on the good in every situation helps me navigate life's challenges with grace and resilience.
• Pursuing Passions: Engaging in activities that I love and that bring me joy is a crucial component of my happiness.
• Practicing Gratitude: Regularly acknowledging and appreciating the blessings in my life fosters a sense of contentment and happiness.

Finding Your Happiness

To avoid becoming like the plastic bag blowing aimlessly in the wind, it's essential to have a clear idea of what will make you happy. Here are some steps to help you on your journey:

1. Reflect on Your Values: Take time to identify what truly matters to you. Your values are the foundation of your happiness. When your actions align with your values, you experience a deeper sense of fulfilment.
2. Set Meaningful Goals: Establish short-term and long-term goals that resonate with your values and aspirations. These goals will give you a sense of direction and purpose.
3. Take Action: Like the first seed, take action towards your goals despite the uncertainties and risks. Every step you take, no matter how small, brings you closer to your happiness.
4. Embrace Change: Be open to change and new experiences. Growth often requires stepping out of your comfort zone and embracing the unknown.
5. Practice Self-Compassion: Be kind to yourself. Understand that setbacks and failures are part of the journey. Learn from them and keep moving forward.
6. Cultivate Positive Relationships: Surround yourself with supportive and positive people who uplift and inspire you.
7. Nurture Your Passions: Engage in activities that bring you joy and satisfaction. Pursuing your passions can be a significant source of happiness.
8. Stay Grateful: Regularly practice gratitude. Acknowledge and appreciate the good in your life, no matter how small.

Moving Forward Toward Your Future

Happiness is not a destination but a journey. It's about making conscious choices to grow, overcome fear, and live fully. The story of the two seeds reminds us that we have the power to choose our path. Will you be like the first seed, embracing growth and experiencing the fullness of life, or will you let fear keep you buried in the ground?

Remember, you are the master of your fate. By taking intentional steps towards your happiness, you can create a life filled with joy, purpose, and fulfilment. Don't wait for the perfect moment—start now, and let your happiness bloom.

Until next week, stay happy and keep growing!

Warm regards, Gerald

Gerald Alexander

CEO of the Global Empire - Xqisit Lifestyles International - Motivational Public Speaker & Self-Development Author.