When we aim to become happy and have a positive outlook, we often focus on acquiring new things, or getting to the next station in life. Happiness is seemingly always “someday” in the near-distant future – like once we save up enough to buy that new house, or once we finally land that promotion.
I’m a huge proponent of both setting new aspirational goals and growing wealth, but I also know the importance of having a positive outlook on life. Your inner happiness needs to be harnessed in the present, so you can use the power of positive thinking to reach those new heights eventually.
When you solely focus on acquiring new things and experiences to be happy, you end up ignoring the toxic habits and attitudes that could be dragging it down. Without further ado, here are some of those things you need to give up to be happy:
Give up on comparison
Theodore Roosevelt once wisely said that “comparison is the thief of joy.”
If you’re in the habit of comparing yourself to people in the next cubicle, it’s one of the things you definitely need to give up to be happy. There will always be someone ahead of you, and comparing yourself to them will do nothing but breed negativity. Remember, the game of life is a marathon, not a sprint. Hopefully, you’re already trying your hardest, and negative thoughts will never help you perform better.
Give up on FOMO
“Business opportunities are like buses,” said Richard Branson. “There’s always another one coming.” If you’re constantly inundated by the fear of missing out (FOMO) you won’t only be less happy, but you’ll end up adopting a short-term outlook and wind up spreading yourself too thin.
Mega-moguls like Branson know that they have limited resources and time, so they carefully evaluate each opportunity that presents itself. Rather than feeling guilty or sad because they turned down an opportunity, they stay happy and sane knowing another one is right down the corner.
Give up on unrealistic standards of perfection
While you should never deliver sloppy work or make careless mistakes, expecting yourself to be perfect 24/7 is another important thing you need to give up to be happy. As Sheryl Sandberg once wisely asked, “What would you do if you weren’t afraid?”
You’ll never be able to leave your comfort zone and expand your success to new horizons if you don’t give yourself permission to make a few slip-ups along the way. The ultra-successful are able to redefine failure as part of the learning experience to achieve positive outlooks, and you should too.
What are some things you’ve given up to be happy? Leave a comment or reach out to me on Twitter!
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