Finding Happiness Lessons
Expectations. You want to remain upbeat and always wish for the best. However, lowering your expectations can imply that even small pleasures can lead to more prospects for happiness. Dr. Shinichi Suzuki, a Japanese musician, pioneered the Suzuki method of music instruction and taught hundreds of children through his child-centered, listening-based, esteem-building method. According to legend, Dr. Suzuki once taught a youngster who had one horribly damaged arm. He figured a how to have the child perform in an unusual manner—holding the violin on the right and bowing with the left hand. As a result, she has the ability to create lovely music. Her story demonstrates how the absence of expectations might allow for the discovery of successful solutions. You can notice more opportunities when present ways do not constrain you. You have expectations about how your typical life should be—how you live, what you do, what you buy, who you see—but letting go of those expectations opens up new avenues for happiness and fulfillment. Virtual happy hours, drive-by birthdays, and even yoga in your neighborhood cul-de-sac are suddenly possible options you would not have considered in the past.
You’re pushing yourself past any limitations you thought you had, not by choice but by necessity. The good news is that these difficult moments can catalyze new habits, behaviors, and lessons. You’re gaining perspective by learning to use (or simply locate) your patience button and taking the long view. You’re learning more about resilience and responsiveness by broadening your adaptability and devising inventive techniques. By engaging with people and expressing thankfulness, you reaffirm your appreciation for the community. And you’re learning new ways to manage yourself through self-discipline and self-care. Perhaps most importantly, you’re discovering new paths to happiness. All of this will benefit you today and in the new normal of tomorrow.
