The Happiness Manifesto

by Weekender Sauce

Define happiness

I’m sure the obvious answer is describe as ‘the state of being happy’. It is but to be accurate, it’s not.

So you will ask, what is happiness then?

For a Chinese, happiness is called ‘xìngfú’, written as「幸福」.

The first word「幸」means fortunate or luck, while the second word 「福」reads blessing. If you ask me, this translation doesn’t carry the real meaning of ‘happiness’. In our traditions, the culture emphasizes on the harmony within the household — whereby the elders speak less of their discontent and often sweep the family’s dirt under the rug.

In contrast, I realized the definition is about something a person pursues when I studied this English term. And why is this so?

It is because what constitutes happiness is difficult to measure and how can we possibly put it into words

Our happiness is multi-dimensional. It comes in many forms and unmeasurable by a single factor. It can be a smile, thought, feeling or simply, living an ideal life.

Sounds easy? You might need to reconsider; with the realistic qualities while you live and breathe every second of this world. Our desire for happiness is limitless based on expectations.

In search the key to happiness

The art of being happy is to appreciate the little things in life. When you feel the positively from within, feel and live in the moment — you are one step closer to true happiness.

「活在当下，及时行乐」is a infamous Chinese proverb for those who seek the true meaning in life. To march forward from the past that could be filled with glory or shamed with mistakes, you shall live in the present moment.

With a clear vision for the future, have one’s feet on the ground and work diligently towards your goals. Grasp the opportunity at hand; cherish it and enjoy the little things you are blessed of.

If you enjoy reading this piece, leave your thought under comment section. Looking forward to hear from you.

Best of luck!