Happiness Is The Key To Success

It was Albert Schweitzer who said “Success is not the key to happiness. Happiness is the key to success.”

This is such a powerful quote, but when you’re in the midst of reaching for success, it’s hard to imagine that happiness has to come first. Doesn’t it make more sense that happiness follows success?

Schweitzer’s quote is a reminder that each day of our lives need to be spent doing something we love, feel passionate about and that makes us feel truly fulfilled. That in and of itself is happiness.

The pursuit of success, should bring happiness into your life in floods, because your desire for success should come from that which fulfills you and brings you joy.

When you experience joy through your work (whether you’ve reached your personal success ideal, or are still reaching) happiness is clearly (and easily) ranking first.  

Sadly, many people still sacrifice their happiness for a paycheck, approval from others or for other external reasons.

If you ever feel like there is something standing in your way of living a happier life, try these 3 steps to invite more happiness into your life.

1.       Focus on things that bring you joy.

Write down 3 things that you enjoy doing. It can be anything – reading, writing, spending time with friends, gardening, finances, etc. Think of what you enjoyed doing as a kid. Once you know what these things are, make time for them each week. Doing even a few things that you love on a consistent basis can dramatically increase your overall happiness. 

2.       Take action.

Aside from making time each week for 3 things you love doing, is there something you’ve been holding yourself back from doing? Maybe you’ve been wanting to get your teaching degree, write a book, start a blog, find a way to help feed hungry children, or you’ve been wanting to ask your boss to take on a new project, etc. Take a leap of faith and do it! There will never be a ‘perfect’ moment, so act now.

3.       Follow your inner voice.

Trust yourself. Listen to your instincts and believe in what you know you truly want out of life. Love yourself and do what fulfills you!

You’re holding the pen to write YOUR story by following your happiness. Go for it. Follow your passions. A life of fulfillment is full of challenges, but worth facing every one.