Today I want to talk about a book I recently read called The Happiness Equation by Neil Pasricha. I want to share what I learnt from the book because it is so important! In the book, the author outlines nine secrets that will make you happy. I want to share the first thing which is “Be happy first.”
Here’s what this means. We all want success and happiness in life. That’s kind of like the ultimate goal for most. But usually it goes like this: “I will be happy when I…am super fit, have a six figure income, and (fill in your desire)”. Tell me if I am wrong!
We have been taught at a young age that once we work hard or do great work, get successful, and then we will be happy.
Let’s say you do get big success. Then you should be happy right? Wrong, we just end up setting new goals. An example is when you land a starting position job. Then you set a new goal to get a promotion. Then a new goal to become a manager and it keeps going. You will always be chasing after happiness and it gets further from you. You will always want more!
But what if we are happy first?? What if we are happy, joyful, ecstatic? Then we are able to do things that make us happy and do great work which in turn creates success!
The author, Neil, suggests a better model that puts being happy first.
Be Happy ➡ Great Work ➡ Big Success
“If we start with being happy, then we feel great. We look great. We exercise. We connect. What happens? We end up doing great work because we feel great doing it. What does great work lead to? Big success. Massive feelings of accomplishment and the resulting degrees, promotions, and phone calls from your mom telling you she’s proud of you.”
Neil Pasricha, The Happiness Equation
Mind blown! Success doesn’t equal happiness. The next time you are feeling unmotivated, just remember to be happy and success will find its way to you.
I hope you enjoyed this post. I highly recommend reading The Happiness Equation. It has great insights on how to become happy and 9 insights to living a happier life. You don’t have to be sad to read this book!
Thank you for reading and until next time don’t forget to stay Chic Neat and Sweet!
♡, Aditi
Chic Neat & Sweet 