Sometimes, the key to a happier life isn’t adding more to it but rather subtracting from it.
You see, we all have these daily habits that are subtly sabotaging our happiness.
In this article, we’re going to discuss seven daily habits that you could do well to bid goodbye to. Ready for some de-cluttering?
It’s time to weed out those joy-stealing habits from our lives and pave the way for greater satisfaction.
1) Neglecting self-care
Let’s start with the basics. How often do you actively prioritize your own physical and mental well-being? Are you consistently putting yourself at the bottom of your own to-do list?
If you answered ‘yes’ to these questions, it might be time for a change.
Self-care is not a luxury; it’s a necessity. When we neglect our own needs, we’re not just doing ourselves a disservice; we’re also compromising our ability to contribute positively to the world around us. A lack of self-care can lead to burnout, stress, and a general sense of unhappiness.
If you don’t already, start treating self-care as a non-negotiable daily habit. This doesn’t mean you have to spend hours in meditation or book weekly spa appointments.
It could be as simple as taking a few minutes each day to do something you enjoy, like reading a book or going for a walk. Remember, you can’t pour from an empty cup. So, fill yours up first.
2) Comparing yourself to others
“How great a rest from labour he gains who does not look to what his neighbour says or does or thinks but only what himeslf is doing” – Marcus Aurelius (The Meditations of the Emperor Marcus Antoninus, 1944)
Picture this: You’re scrolling through your social media feed, and you see a friend’s post about their latest exotic vacation or another friend showing off their new luxury car. Suddenly, your own life seems dull and unimpressive in comparison. Sound familiar?
We live in an age where everyone’s highlight reel is on display 24/7, making it incredibly easy to fall into the comparison trap. But remember, comparing our lives to the curated versions of other people’s lives we see online is like comparing apples to airbrushed oranges.
Comparing ourselves to others can be a one-way ticket to Unhappyville. It breeds discontentment and fosters a mindset of scarcity rather than abundance. Instead of focusing on what others are doing or have, turn your attention inward.
Appreciate your own journey, your own growth, and your own accomplishments.
3) Overloading your schedule
Having a jam-packed schedule can seem like a badge of honor in our hustle culture.
But, and it’s a big but, it’s often a fast track to stress and exhaustion rather than happiness. Overcommitting can leave us feeling drained and overwhelmed.
I remember a time when my schedule was so chock-full that I barely had time to breathe. From the moment my alarm clock buzzed until I collapsed into bed at night, every minute was accounted for. I was constantly rushing from one task to the next, with no time for relaxation or reflection. Needless to say, I was not a happy camper.
The moment I started to consciously make room for downtime in my daily routine, things started to shift. I felt less frazzled and more at peace.
Consider this a reminder to leave some white space in your day-to-day life. It’s okay to say ‘no’ sometimes. And trust me, your well-being will thank you for it.
4) Focusing on what you can’t control
Epictetus, a great Stoic philosopher, once said, “External things are not in my power, my will is my own. Where am I to seek what is good and what is evil? Within me.” (The Discourses of Epictetus , 1916)
This timeless wisdom holds the key to one of the most transformative shifts we can make in our daily habits.
Many of us spend an excessive amount of time and energy worrying about things beyond our control. Whether it’s the traffic jam that’s making us late, the weather ruining our weekend plans, or the opinions of others, these concerns do nothing but steal our peace and happiness.
So the next time you find yourself fretting over something, ask yourself: “Is this within my control?” If it’s not, take a deep breath and let it go.
You’ll be amazed at how liberating it can be.
5) Overconsumption of negative news
In today’s digital age, we are constantly bombarded with news from around the globe. While staying informed is crucial, the overconsumption of negative news can significantly impact our mental health and happiness.
Research has shown that constant exposure to negative news is linked to worsened mental health.
Now, this isn’t to say you should bury your head in the sand and ignore what’s happening in the world. Instead, aim for a balanced news diet. Be mindful of how much time you’re spending consuming news each day and try to diversify your sources to include positive and inspiring stories as well.
Remember, what we feed our minds is just as important as what we feed our bodies. So nourish your mind with content that uplifts you, educates you, and helps you grow.
6) Living in the past or future
We often tend to live our lives in two places – the past and the future, forgetting that the present is the only place where life is actually happening. Dwelling on past regrets or anxieties about the future can rob us of our happiness in the present moment.
Stoicism teaches us the importance of living in the ‘here and now.’ As Marcus Aurelius, a famous Stoic philosopher, once wrote, “Let not the future trouble you; for you will come to it, of come you must, bearing with you the same reason which you are using not to meet the present” (The Meditations of the Emperor Marcus Antoninus, 1944)
Being present means fully engaging with what’s happening right now. It’s about savoring your morning coffee, really listening when someone talks to you, noticing the feel of the wind on your skin – essentially, it’s about being fully awake to your life.
Of course, it’s necessary to learn from our past and plan for our future. But excessive dwelling on either can steal our joy in the present. Practice mindfulness techniques, such as meditation or conscious breathing, to help anchor yourself in the now. Remember, life unfolds in the present. Don’t miss it by being somewhere else in your mind.
7) Neglecting your passions
Finally, one habit that can seriously dampen our happiness is neglecting our passions. In the hustle and bustle of life, we often sideline the activities we genuinely love. We get so caught up in our responsibilities that we forget to make time for what lights us up.
When was the last time you lost track of time doing something you love? Whether it’s painting, hiking, playing an instrument, or simply reading a book, engaging in activities that bring you joy is not just fun – it’s therapeutic.
Pursuing your passions can be a powerful source of happiness. It serves as an outlet for self-expression and a way to unwind and recharge. So make it a point to schedule some ‘me-time’ in your daily routine.
Remember, life isn’t just about getting through the day; it’s also about savoring the moments that make you feel truly alive. So go ahead, dust off that guitar, pull out those paintbrushes, or lace up those hiking boots. It’s time to reconnect with your passion and reignite your joy.
The bottom line
Happiness is not a destination, but a journey that’s deeply intertwined with our daily habits. By bidding goodbye to these nine habits, you’re taking a significant step towards cultivating a happier, more fulfilling life. Remember, it’s all about taking small, consistent steps towards positive change.
We’d love to hear from you! Have you identified any other daily habits that could be hindering your happiness? Or perhaps you’ve got a success story to share about overcoming one of these habits?
Feel free to share your experiences and thoughts in the comments section below. Let’s learn from each other and grow together on this journey towards greater happiness.
What would Marcus Aurelius say?
Unsure what to do next in your career? Struggling to move on from a failed relationship? Searching for more meaning in life?
Marcus Aurelius can tell you how to face your challenges in a more Stoic way.
Simply ask your question, and Marcus Aurelius will answer.
