Confession of a Life and Happiness Coach: Cultivating Happiness

Happy International Happiness Day!

As a life and happiness coach, I often get asked if my positivity came naturally to me. My confession? I wasn’t born carefree, and as a young adult, I struggled with overthinking and low self esteem.

Happiness isn’t something we can merely wish for. It’s a personal journey where we, and only we, have control over our reactions to life’s situations. Reflecting on my own transformation, I now realize that understanding this earlier could have made a significant impact on my well-being.

In my role as a life coach and a mother, I’ve found profound gratitude in knowing what truly brings me joy. This awareness has become the driving force behind my daily purpose and work. My passion extends to helping young people identify their sources of happiness for a more meaningful life.

Amidst the challenges posed by the Covid-19 pandemic, I initiated the Getting to Happy SG movement. This movement introduces a box set of 31 cards featuring activities and ideas, backed by scientific explanations, aimed at enhancing happiness. The cards are designed for daily use over a month to create an overall boost in positivity and well-being. Through coaching clients and my personal journey, I’ve come to understand that happiness originates from within. Placing our happiness in the hands of others leads to perpetual disappointment. We need to embrace our role as the architects of our own happiness, letting go of things beyond our control and learning from our past experiences.

Recognizing the preciousness of life, especially during the pandemic, has led us to identify what truly matters and what brings us joy. Whether it’s the smiles of our children, the comfort of a clean bed, or the satisfaction of a beloved job, happiness is found in the simple and profound aspects of life.

Three Steps to Cultivate Happiness:

1. Find the Silver Lining: This Too Shall Pass
   Even on challenging days, train yourself to see the positive side of situations. Happiness surrounds us; it’s our responsibility to recognize and appreciate it.
2. Embrace Gratitude
   Foster an attitude of gratitude by expressing thanks for three things daily. This simple practice can improve sleep quality and overall well-being and is like working on a muscle – it requires time and patience to make visible changes that are long-lasting.
3. Internalize Control, Set An Intention
   Acknowledge that you are the driver of your happiness. Avoid relying on others for your well-being, focusing instead on your own responses to external factors. Setting an intention helps bring awareness to your thoughts and shift your mindset towards what you want to achieve. It allows you to realise your capacity to push yourself to the next level.

Cultivating happiness is an ongoing journey, and by following these three steps, you can pave the way for a more fulfilling and joyous life. Celebrate International Happiness day by making small steps forward in Getting To Happy. Enjoy a 20% off on any Getting To Happy box sets until 26 March 2024.

Cards used are from the Adult Box set.