My Approach

I committed to a 21-day challenge, where I would take time each day to reflect on and jot down the things that brought me joy. My goal was to remain mindful of happiness throughout my daily activities. Each evening, I would share my reflections on Instagram, highlighting the moments that made me smile.

The Journey

Naturally, our minds often associate happiness with a smile. Over these 21 days, I experienced genuine moments of joy, such as admiring blooming flowers, engaging with a friendly barista, strolling with a friend, or simply enjoying moments of intimacy with my partner.

However, I discovered that my personal happiness extends beyond these simple pleasures. It often emerges when I feel strong, empowered, and fully present. Whether it’s waking up early to hit the gym or experiencing the exhilaration of a good workout, these activities ground me in my body and the present moment. An older skier once shared a valuable lesson with me: "If you stop thinking about skiing, you'll fall. Skiing helps you forget everything else."

When I feel I've made progress, whether through healthy eating habits or facing challenges head-on, my sense of happiness deepens. I find joy in quiet moments, like grocery shopping or driving, where I can listen to music or podcasts that engage my mind. Even repetitive tasks like cleaning can feel therapeutic, instilling a sense of productivity and control over my environment.

Conversely, I often feel unhappy when overwhelmed by chaos and distractions. Yet, I can still find peace in a hectic environment, as long as I maintain a calm mindset. For instance, amidst the bustling crowds of Pike Place Market, I can feel content as I navigate my way through the throng, reminding myself of my insignificance in the grand scheme of things.

Reflecting and Creating

I cherish introspection—sipping coffee while journaling, or wandering through the city with music guiding my thoughts. Engaging in this challenge has prompted me to examine my inner complexities, echoing Socrates' wisdom: "The unexamined life is not worth living."

I also find happiness in creativity. The process of transforming a blank page into a completed article or turning raw ingredients into a delicious dish brings me immense satisfaction. My connections with others also play a crucial role in my happiness, whether through deep conversations, sharing meals I've prepared, or celebrating important moments in their lives.

Post-Challenge Reflections

Through this challenge, I’ve recognized that many of the activities that bring me joy are solitary, prompting me to contemplate how to balance my personal happiness with nurturing my relationships. How can I invite others into the activities I enjoy without compromising my experience? This ongoing exploration of my introverted and extroverted sides will be key to achieving a fulfilling balance.

Navigating Food and Happiness

Given my complicated history with food, I often find unhappiness stemming from unhealthy eating patterns. To combat this, I've initiated another challenge, aiming to cultivate a relationship with food that aligns with my well-being. My goal is to create more days that reflect my happiest and healthiest self.

What brings you joy?

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Exploring the Challenge: 21 Days to Happiness

This video introduces the "21 Day Happiness Challenge," encouraging viewers to engage in daily activities that foster happiness and mindfulness. It serves as a guide for anyone looking to boost their happiness levels through intentional practices.