Happiness is something we all want.
Sometimes, it’s easy to achieve. Especially when everything in your life seems to be going well.
But other times, happiness takes a bit of work, and no one can do it for you. Happiness has to be consciously nurtured for yourself, by yourself.
If you feel like life has you down and is keeping you under, you may have picked up these 8 negative habits.
1. Holding Grudges
Holding a grudge is like carrying around a heavy weight every day, even when you’re not actively thinking about it. But this weight isn’t helping you and it’s not yours to carry.
Even if people have hurt you in the past, try your best to let it go and move on. The only person who you’re holding back when you stay bitter is yourself. It’ll be difficult to do, but you’ll feel happier and more fulfilled in the long run.
2. Being Critical
Self-esteem is an important part of self-love and true happiness. Instead of criticizing yourself every time you fail, remember your self-worth and embrace your strengths as well as your weaknesses.
The same can be said about the way you interact with others. If you find yourself being overly critical of your loved ones, it says a lot more about your self-confidence than about their characteristics.
And if others are criticizing you, let it go and remember that it’s not about you, they’re simply projecting their challenges on the closest target.
3. Addiction
Unhappy people often try to escape their everyday lives through different vices that boost their mood or make them forget their responsibilities. Addictions don’t always involve drugs, alcohol or gambling.
For example, you may find yourself addicted to video games, dating, eating or even sleeping. Instead of reaching for the nearest escape, get creative and express yourself through painting, writing or music.
4. Constant Complaining
Complaining may give you some relief, but it never solves the problem you’re facing. Plus complaining doesn’t just amplify your negative energy, it also brings down the people around you.
Put a spin on your complaint by identifying the problem as well as how it’s making you feel and try to find a solution.
5. Being Filled With Regret
Holding on to mistakes from your past can actually lead to chronic stress and depression (1). Everybody has said or done things they regret, but it’s important to forgive your shortcomings, learn from them and move on. The past is passed, let it go.
6. Gossiping
People who gossip do it out of jealousy and insecurity. If you aren’t living your best life, don’t be upset with people who are pursuing their dreams.
Try to see their happiness as an inspiration to reach for your own goals. It’s a much healthier and constructive way to spend your energy.
7. Worrying About the Future
It’s important to think about the future, but it should never be a case of obsession or worry. Being too concerned with what may or may not happen years from now is the easiest way to prevent yourself from enjoying the present moment.
The future is and will always be uncertain, but you have to trust that you can handle what’s to come. Be true to your heart, work hard, and be kind to others, everything else will fall into place.
8. Making Problems Bigger
When you’re unhappy, you’re more likely to get overwhelmed by small problems than to find a way to fix them.
Everyone faces obstacles in their day-to-day life, but the main difference between happy people and unhappy people is that a happy person faces challenges head-on and stays positive throughout.
All you have to do to get through anything life throws at you is to take a step back, breathe deeply, and find a solution. Don’t be afraid to ask for help if the situation becomes too difficult for you to handle alone.