“Happiness is not something readymade. It comes from your own actions.” - Dalai Lama XIV

With the 20^th of March marking International Day of Happiness, we find ourselves wondering what really makes us happy. As complex human beings, the pursuit of happiness can be irrational and in some cases, unachievable. But why is it that we always tend to make things so complicated, when in fact they’re just really simple. We get it, happiness is subjective, meaning different things to different people. Regardless, it is still up to you to achieve that mindfulness when it comes to taking charge of your own happiness.

At the end of the day, as cliché as it sounds, it is about the little things and although it may take some work, try to be more aware and keep in mind the below:

• Happiness is a state of mind

You may find yourself having one of those ‘down days’, feeling not quite right. You start thinking that that you’re not good enough and things just go downhill from there.  At this point, the words ‘cheer up’ are probably the last thing you want to hear. But, here is where the power of the mind comes in. It is definitely mind over matter and as you take that conscious step to change how you think, doing something uplifting will be the turning point.

This is life, it’s not all butterflies and daisies. You got to take it like it is; with all the good, the bad and the ugly. Challenge your thoughts - because much unhappiness is created from overthinking.

• Be present, be content

Find joy in the ordinaries of everyday life. Remember, no one can be you. No one can do what you do. Don’t compare your life, or yourself, with anyone else. Chances are, if you find yourself amidst challenging times, so is someone else. Get up and get busy. Keep the things or people that make you happy and let go of those that don’t.

Dan Gilbert, author of ‘Stumbling on Happiness’, challenges the idea that we’ll be unhappy if we don’t get what we want. It’s all about being grateful and according to Dan, our ‘psychological immune system’ can make us feel happy even when things don’t actually go exactly as planned.

See TED talk here:

https://www.ted.com/talks/dan_gilbert_asks_why_are_we_happy?language=en

• Play a part in the bigger picture

Part of the UN’s 2030 agenda for accelerating Sustainable Development is to ensure ‘a life of dignity’ for all people. By advancing progress towards achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG), we can all help in spreading happiness around the world. As an individual, why not practice random acts of kindness - find happiness in making others happy. Let us foster this spirit of solidarity and take action to have a positive effect on people’s lives and help in creating a sustainable future for everyone.

As a corporation, BMMI recognises the importance of happiness in the lives of its employees and stakeholders. We will continue to seek and support the SDGs which aim to end poverty, preserve our planet and reduce inequalities - some of key aspects of ensuring happiness and well-being.

Need more? Here’s ten keys for happier living: http://www.actionforhappiness.org/10-keys-to-happier-living