8 hours Ago
I n our pursuit of happiness, we often chase grand achievements — career success, financial security, or material comforts — allowing the outside world to define us. Remember, positions and acquisitions can give you a temporary dose of joy, but it’s only family and friends who will be there at a time of crisis. Unhappiness thrives on our ability to keep visiting the past and keeping our mind out of control.
However, happiness is an inside job, where you take charge of mind, body, soul and in today’s era, mobile. True happiness often lies in the smallest and simplest actions of giving and receiving love or kindness. My happiness sustainers — caring, sharing, listening, and speaking with pure intention — are about practising without expectation.
When we cultivate these habits, we build deeper connections, strengthen resilience, and lead more fulfilling lives. The real joy comes when this practice becomes an intrinsic motivation rather than a transactional act. I have a daily ritual of helping someone in small ways, and over the years, this has become an effortless, intrinsic part of me.
The pleasure of giving without expectation is truly transformative and time well spent. How can we remain more united than divided in daily life with our fellow beings will define a lot of our happiness quotient in life. Caring is one of the most effective happiness boosters because it shifts our focus from ourselves to others.
Acts of kindness are on the rise as per the latest World Happiness report and much more is needed. Imagine a colleague who seems withdrawn or stressed. A simple check-in, “Hey, I noticed you’ve been quiet lately.
Is everything okay?”, can make her feel valued and heard. Research suggests that acts of kindness release oxytocin, often called the “love hormone”, which enhances mood and helps foster social bonds. Being helpful Offer help without being asked.
A small gesture, like making tea for a family member or a co-worker, can brighten their day. Support a cause — volunteer at an NGO or mentor someone who needs guidance. My association with supporting education has taught me that the ground realities of each child and parent can be very different.
Show appreciation — acknowledge efforts by thanking people with clarity of what you really appreciate rather just a thank you. I really liked when you got me the tea at the time I wanted it most — that means so much over a thank you. Happiness is amplified when it is shared.
Whether it’s sharing experiences, knowledge, or even material resources, the act of giving without expectations or ego creates a sense of abundance and fulfilment. An extended family tradition of having Sunday tea together has not only strengthened our bond but also created a safe space for meaningful conversations. Similarly, professionals who share their expertise through mentorship find immense satisfaction in helping others grow.
Share meals, stories, or ideas — host a weekend gathering with friends and encourage open conversations. Contribute resources — donate books, clothes, or your time to someone in need. Just visiting the patient and being there for the caregivers in the hospital or home is so relieving for them and even the patient.
Listening is often undervalued, yet it is one of the most powerful ways to show respect and care. In a world filled with distractions, truly listening to someone can be a rare gift. A leader who listens attentively to the team fosters an environment of trust and collaboration.
Similarly, a parent who listens without judgment helps the child develop confidence and emotional security. I am still a work in progress here. Active listening Practise active listening — put away your phone and make eye contact when someone speaks.
Listen without interrupting — pause before responding to truly process what the other person is saying. Show empathy — validate feelings instead of dismissing them. Instead of saying, “It’s not a big deal,”, try, “That sounds really tough.
How can I support you?” Communication is key to happiness. When we express our thoughts and emotions openly, we reduce stress, resolve conflicts, and build deeper relationships. However, how we speak matters just as much as what we say.
A workplace that encourages open, respectful communication has a healthier culture than one where employees bottle up concerns. Often, we must be mindful of not letting our unconscious biases spring up in the present context. Similarly, a friend who expresses appreciation for another’s support strengthens their bond.
Speak with kindness — compliment someone genuinely today or help someone needy. Here the tone of my voice needs to improve, says my wife as she doesn’t feel it when I say nice things. Have courageous conversations — address issues directly but respectfully rather than avoiding them.
Just being good and polite is often the easier way out. Tough conversations in a safe space are needed more than ever before. Happiness isn’t something we chase — it’s something we cultivate through daily actions.
A lot of us have become comfortable in living with anxiety or in isolation over trying to overcome that. A bit of effort to the make the best of what we have or what we are facing can change most situations. Keep life simple & enjoy the small daily pleasures of life daily.
These simple but powerful happiness sustainers —Caring, Sharing, Listening, and Speaking—can transform the way we interact with others and ourselves. So, here’s your challenge: today, pick one of these boosters and apply it consciously. Show kindness to a stranger, truly listen to a loved one, or express gratitude to a colleague.
Small and simple daily actions create big impacts with lifelong memories. The attention we give to ourselves and our loved ones — and the attention we receive in return — shape our sense of belonging and fulfilment. he more we invest in these simple yet powerful practices, the richer and more connected our lives become.
After all, happiness isn’t just a personal pursuit; it’s a shared experience we nurture together. [email protected] Published - May 04, 2025 04:45 am IST Copy link Email Facebook Twitter Telegram LinkedIn WhatsApp Reddit.
