In the United States, the pursuit of happiness is a god-given
right and Americans have a document to prove it. But I wonder why the Founding Fathers
deliberately phrased it, 'the pursuit of happiness', as if to say --- happiness in itself
cannot be granted because it was, and still remains, tied to materialism. In the
"pursuit" of happiness, it is each person's own definition: money, health,
religion, etc.
Take, for an example, the pessimist and
optimist. If anything bad happens, the pessimist believes it will not last long but will
surely undermine his life. He feels the deck is stacked against him, yet being more
realistic than the optimist, he prepares himself for misfortune.
The optimist regards it as a temporary
setback and goes about removing the obstacle. He risks more but these efforts give meaning
to his life and he makes the best of it. To acquire is to be happy (so the culture
teaches) therefore blessed are they for among them are corporate executives in their
mansions.
There is enough on the subject of happiness
to fill an eBook, but let's measure just one fact: the Internet. How much would it take to
make you a happy Interneter? Has your 'big break' eluded you up to now? What kind of
Internet success would give you a sense of control over your life -- because when you
think about it, "control over your life" is a huge slice of happiness.
To generate a profit on the Internet, it
must come through the development of integrity, character, and efforts on behalf of a
cause greater than oneself. By doing the job with honesty, helpfulness, and concern for
others, we may have to take some time from our busy schedule to coach a struggling newbie.
This mindset offers an easier path to your own success.
Personally, I have not set goals of
Internet success so high that it would plunge me into depression when deprived of a six
figure income. Given the years (like me) you have labored the Internet, you must avoid the
"joy-busters" out to derail your efforts. Only then can you begin living up to
your full potential. You will discover more energy and creativity, better relationships,
healthier thoughts leading to new ideas and a more rewarding income.
Is there a difference between the life you have
-- and the life you want? Do you think excuses or results? You can change this
today; be that singer who is tone-deaf but sings anyway for the sheer joy it offers.
Jim Leonard wrote, "Happiness is a
skill. As with other skills, you can get better at it." He suggests that at this
point in your life you might think that things are not the way they should be. Yet things
are the way they are. If you can be happy in that reality, then you will improve your life
faster and reach your goals easier. Energy will not be wasted on friction or regrets.
What you have is the present moment. Use it
-- enjoy it.
© 2004 Esther Smith
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