Healthy vs Happy
People always say that if they lost weight or got into better shape that they would be happy. The problem with that logic is that is not how being happy works. Of course you can find moments of fulfillment through achieving healthy living, but that is not the same thing as saying, “My life would be happier if I were 2 sizes smaller.” 1st, you must understand where happiness comes from, then you can apply it to your health.
Based on the “Happy Documentary”, let me offer you a little science behind where joy comes from. 50% is genetic. 10% derives from circumstance, such as: income, social status, where you live, age, etc. (Where most people put their energy.) That means that 40% of your happiness is unaccounted for. This is what they call, “Intentional Activity”. (Where people should direct their attention towards.) From there we have 2 values: Extrinsic and Intrinsic. Extrinsic focuses on external reward such as: praise, getting things, image and status. Intrinsic is all about personal growth, relationships, acts of kindness, etc. Extrinsic and Intrinsic are in direct opposition of each other. People who targeted more on Extrinsic values were found to be less satisfied, suffered more from depression, anxiety, felt less vital and energized.
Like muscles, it is crucial to work on strengthening and developing your self-esteem if complete fulfillment is what you seek. Lets do a quick awareness check. On a scale from 1 to 10 (1o being the best) where do you score when it comes to loving, honoring and respecting yourself? This is where the real training begins. Are you recognizing and appreciating who you are, your successes and all that you have? Do you understand that there is no one else like you, which makes you unique and special? As with any change it takes time, dedication and commitment to achieve success so expect nothing less when working on your self-development. The higher level at which you can value yourself, the greater and long standing your joy will be.
