What Makes You Happy?

We all have some basic needs. Food. Clothing. Shelter. Health. Without these, life is difficult and not very enjoyable. But once you have these, what is it that makes you happy? Chances are extremely high that even if you attained everything you desired in life, you would still eventually become discontented once again. That is, unless you understand that the only pleasure you derive from anything is that which your mind gives to it. If you remove your thoughts and attention from any object or experience, your corresponding happiness and enjoyment vanish. All your emotions, including happiness, joy and pleasure, are internally generated in your own mind. The beauty of your most prized possession, which may be right in front of you, disappears when your thoughts and attention are absent from it. Realize then, that it is within you, not outside you, that the happiness you long for is created, and keep in mind that nothing outside of you can ever sustain the emotions you desire. Learning to self-generate your emotional states at will is the only way to sustain lasting inner peace. As always, I'd love to hear your thoughts on today's topic. You can write to me at kim@coachkim.com. © 2009 Kim Smith