There are many short term happiness solutions, we all know. Examples of these include parties, concerts, holidays, running, exercising and even mediation. While some or most of these provide quick relief and even impression of happiness, the effects don’t last. Sometimes, the long term side effects, of some of these activities result into more disappointment, frustration, losses and depression.
Then what would be needed for true happiness, and also to make it last ?
I will borrow few words from Sanskrit language to explain these points. The translation in English may not be exact, but I will try to find closest possible words. Sukha – Happiness must contain all of the following three elements; Shanti (Peace, Calmness, Quietness), Santosha (Contentment), and Sadbhavna (Goodwill, Respect, Generosity).
All these elements Peace, Content and Respect are also interrelated and interdependent. One can’t have true peace without being content with themselves and having respect for others. Similarly, it is also difficult to just content and have no peace and generosity towards others.
- Shanti (Peace, Calmness, and Quietness) will create mental clarity, so to make good choices in one’s life.
- Santosha (Contentment) will also help to accept and appreciate what one has, and not be overly greedy or jealous.
- Sadbhavna (Goodwill, Respect, and Generosity) will create platform for growth of pleasure and happiness.
Once we have these three elements – Peace, Contentment and Respect – we can experience true lasting happiness.
Thanks, if you have really read this blog and you like it, please do one of the following:
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:-)
Namo Namah.
Avnish
I found your analysis of the elements of happiness very interesting… and satisfying, for when we look at this way, we know we are happy!!!!
That’s a really neat concept, I like the way the elements are interdependant and I’m going to try to look for examples in my life.
I appreciate these words of wisdom on happiness — thanks for sharing and thank you for stopping by Travel Oops! Cheers.
There is no such thing as happiness. The real thing is unhappiness. Absence of unhappiness is the happiness. Rest are all passing sensation.
Thank you for your beautifully written and inspiring post. Indeed, happiness is not a quick fix solution. It is the joy of being. Happiness is not something we have to search for; it is always with us. It is the light that shines from within.
Knowledge multiplies by dividing it,
what an excellent expression!
Liked the addition of respect to the peace and contentment. That is not usually linked to these two.
Reblogged this on Mm172001's Blog and commented:
Three essential elements to happiness, I like this take. I find different beliefs often have words to explain concepts we just don’t have in English, this is an example with these three.
I agree with you…most Americans believe they need ‘stuff’ to make them happy, but it is not possessions that bring happiness. Keep up the powerful messages!
Oh, the world is definitely building itself. This had just the things I’ve been looking for for some days already, so thanks for making the search easier
What comes to the subject matter, I think that has a lot to do with Buddhism and especially Dalai Lama’s book The Art of Happiness. And I think the ones who have been digging into the how of happiness (not the book, the thing itself) possibly know by now that the importance of meditating and yoga have been very much underscored… I’m eagerly waiting for the day when introverts rule the world 
How much of the meaning of ‘true happiness’ is people expressing a desire for unending happiness? The broad spectrum of human emotions can all serve useful purposes in particular circumstances.
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I’m going to write these down – so succinct yet profound. Thanks:-)
Amazing article. Truly inspiration