One of the biggest misconceptions of our time is that to be genuinely happy, we need to reach some level of high success. A prestigious job, luxurious home, public recognition—all of these tend to make us feel as though if we’re not working toward them, we’re somewhat behind. It may feel like we’re darting straight for the finish line, but with every step, it keeps getting farther and farther away. Why is that?
There will always be someone with more—more money, more things—and it’s completely normal to compare yourself. You want to be the best version of yourself, and it’s extremely easy to direct your insecurities to where you are in life. The hard truth is: you will always be striving for something. Even when you get to where you want to be, continue to work hard, and become the best you can be.
Overcoming day-to-day challenges is success. Improving yourself is success. Moving on is success. Putting your mental health first is success. Healing is success. Overcoming anxiety is success. Surviving a bad day is success. Surrounding yourself with love, kindness, and positivity is success. If you spend every day falling in love with who you are and what you’re achieving, you’ve reached a level of contentment many may never receive. Everything you are doing to bring joy into this world and the people around you is more than enough.
When your mindset is fixed on nothing but succeeding, naturally you’ll take everything step by step. You may believe that when you follow a specific roadmap or master plan, you’ll get to where you need to be. But where is your time going? Do not get comfortable with the idea that life will wait while you spend your time on everything else but yourself. Regardless of whether it’s hours or years, time will continue to go by. And before you know it, you’ll find yourself so engulfed in making more money or becoming the next big thing, there won’t be much time left.
Discover new passions. Chase old ones. Engulf yourself in art and culture. Spend time with those who inspire you, and never take them or anything for granted. Find something to believe in. Instead of tirelessly chasing the next big step, enjoy where you are now. Be present, and start turning your goals into daily habits. Your happiness begins the day you start falling in love with who you are, so give yourself permission to live in the moment. You are exactly where you need to be.
Mikayla Hunt is editor-in-chief of PopGabble.com, featuring topics such as lifestyle, interviews, wellness, and fashion. In the last six years, she’s done extensive editorial work with major publications all over the country and currently works with brands in content creation. Mikayla’s work reflects her deep passion for words, people, and finding joy in every waking moment. Follow her on Instagram @_mikaylahunt_.
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