The Secret Of Happiness, According To The Dalai Lama

Photo by Artem Beliaikin

What is the real secret of happiness?

To answer this question, the Dalai Lama says, “Many people feel money is the source of a happy life. Money is necessary, but useful- but more and more money doesn’t bring happiness. Relying on money to be happy is too materialistic.”

Happiness is not about money.

Happiness doesn’t care about your money.

It is more than your money.

If you are not happy, don’t blame your money.

Happiness is not about your bank account.

Happiness is not about your titles.

Happiness is not about your cars.

Happiness is not about your vacation homes.

Happiness is more than material possessions.

Happiness happens in your mind.

If your mind is healthy, clean, positive, you will find happiness. The Dalai Lama adds: “Nowadays, many people have the belief that if material progress continues, then everything will be okay. That way of thinking is a mistake. Material goods provide comfort for the physical body but not for the mind.”

If you want to be happy, you must work really hard to protect your mind. Remember, happiness is not about money. It is about your mind.

Further Reading:

Goleman, D., A Force for Good: The Dalai Lama’s Vision for Our World (New York: Bantam Books, 2015): 106-107

How To Not Focus On Negative Thoughts

Photo by Tara Winstead

You are your thoughts. If you want to change your life, it is better to start with your thoughts. Because if you can change your thoughts, you can change your life.

No matter what, keep your heart open to positive things. When you open your heart to positive things, to love, to peace , and to passion, happiness will come to you.

To stay positive, focus on these things.

Laugh

“Laugh, and the world laughs with you; Weep, and you weep alone; for the sad old earth must borrow its mirth, but has trouble enough of its own.”- Ella Wheeler Wilcox

“Pay special regard to those who … are brought into closer connection with you.”

“Since you cannot do good to all, you are to pay special regard to those who, by the accidents of time, or place, or circumstances, are brought into closer connection with you.”- Augustine of Hippo

Focus on the best

“Prepare your mind to receive the best that life has to offer.”- Ernest Holmes

Life is going to throw different things at you. But to get the best, you must expect the best.