Cracking the Happiness Code
Another day, and I’m happy.
I think I’ve cracked the happiness code—or at least found my own version of it. It rests on something simple, something we all know but rarely practice:
slow down.
The Problem: A Hurried Mind
There was a time when my mind was always racing. Thoughts about work, life, dreams, worries—everything flashing through like a never-ending slideshow.
I was chasing too much. Jumping from one ambition to the next. But deep down, I started realizing—this wasn’t me.
It was just my mind.
And our minds are wired to do this.
They cling to the past, leap into the future.
But in all that noise, I was skipping the only thing that’s real: the present moment.
I wasn’t pausing to see what I already had.
I wasn’t thanking myself. Or my God.
The Shift: Learning to Slow Down
Slowing down doesn’t mean giving up your goals. It just means not letting the chase own you.
Gandhi said it best:
“There is more to life than increasing its speed.”
Most of the rush, I realised, came from thinking too much and not feeling enough.
Here’s what helped me:
- Mindful Presence
Pause. Notice the little things.
The first sip of tea. The rain on the window. Light slanting across the floor.
It’s not deep—just honest noticing. - Reframe the Routine
Even a boring drive can be reset.
Take a different route.
Or play something meaningful while you're at it. - Use Gratitude to Ground Yourself
Every day, thank yourself—for showing up.
And if you believe in something bigger, whisper a thank-you for what already is. - Step Outside the Noise
Your mind will spin. That’s its job.
But you’re not your thoughts. Just watch them pass.
Name the rush, then let it float. - Simplify the Goals
It’s okay to do less.
Fewer targets. More focus. Enjoy the doing.
The Reward: Peace
When I slowed down, life didn’t get boring.
It got clear.
I started noticing moments.
Started feeling grateful.
Started feeling like myself again.
The world may still move fast.
But now, I choose to walk at my own pace.