The Single Secret to Making 2009 Your Best Year Ever

Eman the Faithful Says:

January 5th, 2009, 12:07 pm

finally i get to comment fist !
:) ,, Great blog

Corey - Simple Marriage Project Says:

January 5th, 2009, 12:25 pm

Live in the moment. Slow down and enjoy the ride. I have some goals yes, but this post hits right in line with what I am doing this year. Thanks Leo!

EscapeVelocity Says:

January 5th, 2009, 12:27 pm

I find I tend to short-circuit from appreciating my blessings to feeling guilty for not making better use of them.

Kay Says:

January 5th, 2009, 12:30 pm

I am happy in this moment. These are good times. Life changed a lot for me when I embraced this concept.

Lee Ann / Living Introverted Says:

January 5th, 2009, 12:32 pm

Ah! This is wonderful! It’s so important to remember that not only is reaching a goal significant, but the journey is too - maybe it’s more significant!

Even the mistakes and the disappointments are miracles if we let them be. Sure, we all want to get somewhere, but we’re somewhere now, aren’t we?

Thanks, Leo, for this great single tip for 2009 - Happiness is here (look around you and look inside)! Go for those goals, but stay in the moment.

Adam Di Stefano - 52 Short Stories Says:

January 5th, 2009, 12:38 pm

Leo - this is the best piece of advice anyone could ever give. I think many of us come to this realization every now and then, but then get caught up in our lives and forget about it all over again.

Me? I’m going to be putting, “Happiness is Right Here, Right Now,” up on my wall. It’s as good a mantra as any.

Thanks for this post - served as a great reminder.

KyNam Doan Says:

January 5th, 2009, 12:38 pm

This is a good theme and worthy of a post-it note stuck to my monitor. I’ll put it right next to “Hustle your face off” by Gary Vaynerchuk. Thanks!

Meng Jade Says:

January 5th, 2009, 12:40 pm

Life is a journey, enjoy every moment. I will copy your goals, since I am out of job now. Don’t wait, start to write.

Angie Says:

January 5th, 2009, 12:41 pm

YES! This is a wonderful blog post that reminds me of new life plan: enjoy this minute right now. It is as simple - and as difficult - as that! No more. No less. Just right now. :-)

My heart is singing!

JeD Chan Says:

January 5th, 2009, 12:47 pm

Greetings Mr. Leo Babauta!

I’m really happy to have stumbled in your zen habits. I really envy your blog, I’ve been wishing and praying to have a blog in this niche. Your blog will be my inspiration.

More power!

I love Zen Habits!

Enduring Wanderlust Says:

January 5th, 2009, 12:56 pm

I met a Buddhist monk in Bodh Gaya, India this past summer. He said to me: “you don’t need to study or practice Buddhism. Just be happy and you achieved it.”

~Gennaro

Torstein Says:

January 5th, 2009, 12:56 pm

Thank you for an AMAZING article! I loved it, and I love this blog.

I preordered The Power Of Less, two copies. One for me and one for a good friend of mine.

Please don’t ever stop blogging, even if you’re “put out of business” ;-)

Scott Williams Says:

January 5th, 2009, 13:06 pm

Great Stuff… the beginning of the year is always a great time to plan, plan and plan.

Only those who will risk going too far can possibly find out how far one can go. ~T.S. Eliot

Steve @ Freedom Education Says:

January 5th, 2009, 13:11 pm

Hey Leo - I think you just put me out of business!

I’m not really surprised you understand this idea of happiness so well - it’s where you’re coming from

How else would you BE so successful with your blog?

You would have had to be happy first (before being successful)

Tabitha (From Single to Married) Says:

January 5th, 2009, 13:18 pm

wow - I loved this post! Everything is dead-on, especially the part about enjoying the journey and being happy now instead of waiting for happiness to begin. I can’t tell you how many times I have felt that way - thanks for the reminder!

Julie Acda (Fitness Wife) Says:

January 5th, 2009, 13:21 pm

Thanks Leo! You’re absolutely right; it’s all about the journey. Besides, what else is there in life? It’s all one big journey!

Sometimes it’s hard to remember that everything is a miracle, especially when you think your goal is so far away. I’ve heard it likened to a roadtrip. You know you’re on your way to your destination, but you take joy in the scenery and experiences along the way. It’s just as beautiful, and possibly even more so.

mamelouk Says:

January 5th, 2009, 13:24 pm

hi,

great blog, and good post

but if it’s so simple to be happy, why so few people are really happy ?

Glen Allsopp Says:

January 5th, 2009, 13:39 pm

So true Leo, we are always looking for that ‘next thing’ whether it be a holiday, romance, relationship or new material possesion. When it comes it doesn’t leave us any more fulfilled than before.

Stumbled!

Cheers,
Glen

Jared Little Says:

January 5th, 2009, 13:45 pm

Great Post. The begining of the year is a great time to re-focus and the journey is always the best part of hitting any goal. The longer the journey the better you feel about the goal so enjoy it.

Lisa Llarena Says:

January 5th, 2009, 14:05 pm

This was a great read. “It’s the journey…” is something I remind myself of constantly. And if there’s anything I’ve learned, it’s that happiness is really just a decision. I decided last December 31, 2007 that I was going to be happy for the entire year of 2008, and somehow found myself just doing things that would make it happen throughout that year. It turned out to be my best year yet, and I know 2009 is going to be even better. It sounds so simple that it’s almost insulting, but it’s so true.

Live for Improvement Says:

January 5th, 2009, 14:07 pm

That is a profound attitude towards life. It is so simple and yet so many people just don’t get it. Keep up the good work.

-Dan Malone-

Cynthia Says:

January 5th, 2009, 14:16 pm

Thanks for the reminder that we can be happy NOW. I tend to forget often that I can be happy now.

What a great way to start off the year. Thanks for the post.

Maura Says:

January 5th, 2009, 14:21 pm

Leo, you say “… if you implemented this one tip, you wouldn’t really need any others. It would put all of us out of business.” — I am assuming you don’t mean to say that your readers are a group of unhappy people — or that living in the present (and being happy) means being overjoyed and effervescent all the time!!

Non-attachment to the outcome and having a wholesome intention for seeking the goal (eg., losing weight to improve health rather than for vanity) helps goal-seekers stay on the right path. Read more at http://www.yogajournal.com/newsletter/myj_342.html.

Namaste.

Carla Says:

January 5th, 2009, 14:34 pm

This is exactly what I needed to read right now. I am back at work today after being on holiday and I am sick, in physical pain, tired and would nothing more than to curl up with a good book right now. Though all of this, I can still be happy NOW! I have so much to look forward to in the near future.

copaX Says:

January 5th, 2009, 14:36 pm

I’ve spent a great deal of my life worrying about how things could be better, and losing sight of the fact that things are in and of themselves good as they are. This concept seems so simple and logical, but I just have a hard time seeing how I can change my perception.

Is it just a matter of practice? In a sense, “forcing” myself to see the good in things around me?

If I try to do it right now, my thoughts just seem to get overridden by thoughts of how things could be better if people tried a little harder (mostly myself, but others as well), or if things “went the right way”

I’m sorry if I’m derailing the comments, I just thought I’d ask for advice on how I could try to put this into practice.

Thank you for the wonderful blog.

DKumar M. Says:

January 5th, 2009, 14:45 pm

Never beat it by moving so fast… I usually spent my most of the time thinking about my present and future. My Attitude towards life is very rude Also my goals is not visible from here Still fighting with it.

tigerbee Says:

January 5th, 2009, 14:53 pm

A nice reminder, thank you. I once had a book called “The Journey Is The Destination” about a young amazing artist named Dan Eldon.The book impacted me greatly and the title has always stayed with me. Another nice post Leo! So simple and how easily we forget!

Grateful Says:

January 5th, 2009, 14:54 pm

Thanks! Awesome post!

Mad Scribbler Says:

January 5th, 2009, 15:07 pm

Congratulations Leo! You’ve done it! You can go take a vacation - no more habits needed and I’m so happy!
(just kidding - you would be sorely missed and many people would not be happy - so I will continue to read to keep myself on track :) )

It is actually a good idea for a monthly challenge - to take 10 minutes a day fr 30 days to just be happy!

Fit Bottomed Girls Says:

January 5th, 2009, 15:08 pm

Thank you for this post. Thank you, thank you, THANK YOU. I’m going to say this and reread it when I’m feeling off course. :)

Shanel Yang Says:

January 5th, 2009, 15:08 pm

It’s part of human nature to always want more — and that’s not necessarily a bad thing. It’s what has pushed our species to its greatest achievements (and admittedly some of its worst). But, that’s all part of the yin and yang of the universe. Yes, be as happy as you possibly can every single day. Then, go ahead and strive for more and to help others. There’s always room for improvement and that longing and striving is also part of what makes us happy! If we already had everything we wanted, we’d get bored of that pretty quickly. ; )

Chris Cairns Says:

January 5th, 2009, 15:31 pm

Leo, you’re right. If people actually followed this piece of advice, there’d be a lot less consumption of productivity-related information.

Fortunately, or unfortunately, depending upon your perspective, American society is open-ended — an endless number of things to do, see, have, and experience. This open ended-ness creates a sense of time starvation among us (or some of us), which, in turn, drives us to seek methods and means to gain more time and money for life, hoping that will lead to eventual happiness.

The polar opposite of this behavior is the practice of time savoring, as the Dalai Lama discusses in the book THE ART OF HAPPINESS. He offers a philosophical framework and effective and practical “meditations” for living in the moment and being thankful for one’s mere existence.

Personally, I think the solution, or the answer, for time-starved Americans is somewhere in between time efficiency and time savoring. So keep reading this blog!

Chris Cairns

Simona Rich Says:

January 5th, 2009, 15:36 pm

It is essential to want more, this is what the life is all about. Where there is stagnation, there is death. It is in the laws of the universe to want to expand, to desire new things and to grow. This is our nature.

We should pursue everything that we desire. That’s the only way forward.

pril Says:

January 5th, 2009, 16:04 pm

Nice
Stop waiting for happiness. Happiness is right here, right now

took me 27 years to figure out that happiness is a choice we all have to accept or not!

bad stuff is going to happen we can’t stop that! but at least we can look at it and smile! :)

and i’m happy that i don’t get stuff done! I’d like to get stuff done but if i don’t get it done it will not make me sad i’m always happy! well 95% of the time:)

life is all about challenge and if you don’t challenge yourself the world will find challenges for you!
leo you have motived me to think, and motived me to keep accountable! but I have to be honest it’s me that got off my but and did something!
It’s sad but i really don’t need this blog or any other blogs but i would never part with them! I enjoy reading what you say! and agree to 90% of it! but your style of writing is easy to understand and process even for me and i’m not the fast understander out there LOL (hope that made sense) lol
Much love to you and your Family!
PS you can apply this rule Stop waiting for happiness. Happiness is right here, right now and still have issues! but at least your happy with issues! :)

Puerhan Says:

January 5th, 2009, 16:38 pm

Great post Leo, thanks! My brother gave me a poster for Christmas that has a beautiful photo of some monks in a forest and a quote of the Buddha:

“There is no Way to Happiness - Happiness is the Way”

I LOVE ZENNING IT UP! Says:

January 5th, 2009, 16:40 pm

Wow - this blog is utterly useless now. And I’m out. I don’t like zenning it up anymore.

Over and OUT.

TheDutchSchoolKid Says:

January 5th, 2009, 17:39 pm

I experienced this, a couple of months ago.
I just saw the snow outside, when I woke up. And I loved it, and saw it as a miracle.
Before the magic snow, I saw some bird flying, and saw it as a miracle.
Even before the bird, I saw just a road, designed by human beings, and saw it as a miracle.
I love to enjoy everyday, but I forget it sometimes :)

Stefan/DSK
TheDutchSchoolKid.blogspot.com

Sharon Says:

January 5th, 2009, 17:40 pm

That was a fantastic post, and so very true. I try hard to live this one, not always easy, but really, nobody knows how long they have so you might as well be enjoying the time you know you do have!!

Leo Says:

January 5th, 2009, 17:54 pm

Thanks for all the wonderful comments, everyone!

@Marua, who said:

“I am assuming you don’t mean to say that your readers are a group of unhappy people — or that living in the present (and being happy) means being overjoyed and effervescent all the time!!”

No, I was being a bit facetious, although I do know that a lot of readers have asked me about this topic, so I’m hoping it will help them. Does living in the present mean being overjoyed? Of course not — life is a series of ups and downs, and you have to accept all of your emotions, but joy is a good one. :)

AndrewE Says:

January 5th, 2009, 17:55 pm

Words of wisdom indeed. I was out for my run this morning and I realised how happy I was and it was great.

Leo Says:

January 5th, 2009, 17:59 pm

@copaX who asked:

“If I try to do it right now, my thoughts just seem to get overridden by thoughts of how things could be better if people tried a little harder (mostly myself, but others as well), or if things “went the right way”

I’m sorry if I’m derailing the comments, I just thought I’d ask for advice on how I could try to put this into practice. ”

Never be sorry for asking great questions! I might have to do another post on this topic soon, but as for living in the moment, I have some articles you might find useful:

5 Inspirations for Being in the Moment

A Simple Guide to Being Present for the Overworked and Overwhelmed

Practical Tips to Practice Being Present

I also recommend these books:

Slowing Down to the Speed of Life

Peace Is Every Step: The Path of Mindfulness in Everyday Life

Jenny Pick Says:

January 5th, 2009, 18:13 pm

My husband is a very big fan of yours. He always says I should check out your blog because it’s all about what we are. Positive. Today I listened. I needed a boost and your article was awesome. Thanks so much!

Christian Nanz Says:

January 5th, 2009, 18:16 pm

Leo,
Thanks for your post today. I don’t believe for one moment that this one great tip negates the need for other advice an information.

Even when we stop waiting for happiness and start living now, we all still benefit from sound advice and from learning from others.

Christian
http://www.MakeTheDaysCount.com

Erik Says:

January 5th, 2009, 18:40 pm

I agree, however I don’t think this will make me stop reading zenhabits. That might also be where a problem is, thinking about how to find hapiness doesn’t really make you happy.

Also, I can make myself feel hapiness at every moment but I’m afraid to do this all the time because I kind of feel that then hapiness wouldn’t be so happy anymore.

Noah Says:

January 5th, 2009, 19:13 pm

A small thought:

I’ve been fighting some crazy sinus thing for a couple of months now.. it makes me miserable as it’s hard to be placid and happy with now when I can’t wait until I feel like ME again.

I know it’s nothing, and I’ll get over it. I guess I am writing to give extra credit to those with painful illness who manage to come to peace and and love the world around them and them moment even when that moment includes pain and discomfort and sleepless nights.

Eric Hamm Says:

January 5th, 2009, 19:17 pm

It’s an age old idea and not one that requires a genius mind to figure out, but most of us overlook it none the less. Thanks, Leo, for reminding us to stop and smell the roses. :-) Eric.

Heather Says:

January 5th, 2009, 19:35 pm

Hey Leo,

Thanks for the post - I loved it! If we enjoy the process of the things we are striving then it follows that we can enjoy life more. So simple! Thanks for the reminder- that’s why you wont go out of business!

Heather

Matt Kreiling Says:

January 5th, 2009, 19:39 pm

Thanks for the reminder.

I have found that to be happy now, I need to feel that I am moving forward, improving and adding to the sum happiness of the world.

Sometimes, when I can’t quite enjoy the moment there is a reason: I am doing something wrong. (Perhaps I broke a promise or am engaging in destructive behavior).

Gerry Says:

January 5th, 2009, 19:53 pm

Thanks Leo - wonderful post

btw - the second link at the bottom of your post is not workingt - the one titled:”The Power of Less: An Interview with Leo Babauta”

When you click - it comes up with a ‘this link is broken’ message. Thought you’d like to know

Great blog, keep up the good work!

Joy Says:

January 5th, 2009, 20:00 pm

What an excellent post! You are so right with “happiness right here, right now”. That’s the contented life. :-) I am reading daily Dr. Wayne Dyer’s “Chane Your Thoughts, Change Your Life” book and one of the ‘advice’ for the 3rd verse of the Tao Te Ching was:

“Remind yourself daily that there is no way to happiness; rather, happiness IS the way.”

Thanks for the wonderful reminder. Happy 2009!

Christine Says:

January 5th, 2009, 20:01 pm

Thanks for the great post, so true! It’s important to be present and focused on enjoying each moment instead of being distracted and stressing about work, tasks, etc.

Joe Says:

January 5th, 2009, 20:25 pm

Leo great post.

The walk is much more gratifying than the destination and miracles can be found along the way in every thing we do.
Just look at your hand and the all complexities it takes just to hold a spoon; the human body is a miracle in-itself.

Erica Ross-Krieger Says:

January 5th, 2009, 20:29 pm

This idea must be in the air today…or at least the air I’m breathing…good thing because I needed the reminder. Earlier I saw a tweet from @ShamaHyder on twitter, that said: “1 Thing to Do in 09: START at Happy. Then move forward. Don’t move ‘toward’ happy-there is no such thing!” That pretty much sums it up for me too. It’s all here. right now. this breath. Mega thanks for the reminder, Leo:)

Matt Says:

January 5th, 2009, 20:34 pm

Hey, this is a great post!

That’s a very good idea - I never really thought of it that way. I’m ready for 2009! :)

Success Professor - Danny Gamache Says:

January 5th, 2009, 20:39 pm

Leo,

Great post. I agree so much with your thesis that you can be happy now.

Of course the end of your post shows us why even if we do follow your advice we can still benefit from blogs like yours (and mine); you can be happy while working through the process and work to improve and reach goals at the same time.

NormalMiddle Says:

January 5th, 2009, 21:15 pm

I used to have an award winning blog called, you guessed it— Enjoy the Journey. I gave it up because I got tired of writing about life and wanted to just live it! :)

In short, the only thing I wanted to add is sometimes you gotta “Fake it til you make it” when it comes to happiness. Tell yourself you are happy and sooner or later you will not be faking it anymore. You will be happy and content with what you’ve been given.

I’m living proof!

sarah Says:

January 5th, 2009, 21:18 pm

wonderful post. i totally agree.

A Planet Named Janet Says:

January 5th, 2009, 21:55 pm

Great post. I am finding that one goal attained is better than many half baked.

Carrie Boyko Says:

January 5th, 2009, 21:56 pm

Simple concept…easy to apply. Profound!

Winnie Lim Says:

January 5th, 2009, 22:52 pm

I too, spent most of my life waiting….waiting to grow up, waiting for the right opportunity, waiting to be financially secure…waiting.

Until I realised we cannot take our life/health for granted, not even for a single second. I have known too many people who waited to be financially secure, only to have their health fail or life ended.

My new resolution for 2009: Stop waiting! :)

Dee Says:

January 5th, 2009, 23:34 pm

Loud applause! Amen. Bravo! We spend so much time looking for ways to be happy that never just “be happy”. We look for the recipe and forget how good the ingredients taste. So simple and so true.

dr aletta Says:

January 5th, 2009, 23:38 pm

Leo,

You are so right. What fascinates me is that I wrote a very similar post on my blog on New Year’s Day. It was about self-esteem and resolutions. Great minds…

James Oppenheim, a follower of Carl Jung said, “The foolish man seeks happiness in the distance, the wise grows it under his feet.”

PS. I bought your book yesterday. I love it!

Vincent Says:

January 5th, 2009, 23:43 pm

Hi Leo,

This is a very important concept that I believe everyone must know about. We tend to have the thought that when I have this then I will be happy but this process kept on going.

If we truly want to be happy, we need to know that happiness is a daily decision. We had seen poor people who are happy and rich people who are unhappy in this same world. What does it show? It shows that happiness lies in your attitude towards life and we can decide it.

Cheers
Vincent
Personal Development Blogger

Karen Says:

January 5th, 2009, 23:45 pm

This was a great thought provoking article. I really loved it!

Karen

Here On Columbia Avenue
Da Boss And Bryguy
4 Cats Make Me Crazy!

Ali Says:

January 6th, 2009, 0:43 am

Yes :).

Neil Duckett Says:

January 6th, 2009, 3:21 am

Very thought provoking indeed, an enjoyable read. If history repeats itself 2009 will be my best year ever, they have continued to improve in various ways for the last 12, since moving from my home state to another, then overseas some 9 years later.

I haven’t written any short or long term goals in a few years and therefor haven’t striven as much as i should …. interestingly i’m at a point now where the long term goals i wrote in 1997 are all accomplished ….. time to put pen to paper!

Haytham Says:

January 6th, 2009, 3:49 am

In the past you was put a link for the post photo but I didn’t put it in this post. Can please put a link that make me go to the big version.

by the way it’s nice

Element30 Says:

January 6th, 2009, 3:49 am

Brilliant post! Very timely considering the focus on goal setting and planning at this time of year.

sri Says:

January 6th, 2009, 3:52 am

The New Earth by Eckhart sums it up beautifully “Happiness is always based on Content and Structure”. The Content changes while the Structure remains life long.
If one identifies the insanity of this Method with deep Self-introspection, Happiness just Unfolds.
Peace,
Sri.

Rudolf Says:

January 6th, 2009, 9:32 am

Nice synchronicity Leo…you are soo right. I have realized this thinking about gratitude during last few days and it is the KEY…it is so important (and yet simple) that we should all broadcast the message. I will prepare Toastmasters invocation “True happiness” for starters.. :)

Phao Loo Says:

January 6th, 2009, 9:39 am

Very nice secret!

Others like your words:

“Stop searching forever, happiness is next to you”

Why they use “searching” not “finding”? Because happiness can be found, actually it’s NOWHERE. After reading you post, and split the word NOWHERE = NOW + HERE, all of us will understand why? Yes, happiness is now and here. It’s not in the past, not in the future, it’s now. And it’s here, not in a beautiful house or not in a expensive car.

“There’s no way to happiness,
But happinese is the way”

This is also famous. All of us always think when we go to a point, we’ll be happy such as graduating, getting a good job or having a nice baby. But it is the unstable happiness. It is the “condition” happiness: I will be happy if…, I will be happy if… and I don’t know whether it is real or unreal condition. We must feel happy each step on that way.

Thanks for a nice post.

Mink Says:

January 6th, 2009, 9:46 am

Recently starting following your blog and I simply love it. Thanks for sharing your insights with us.

Meaghan Says:

January 6th, 2009, 9:50 am

True, simple and–sometimes–very difficult to implement. Thank you for the encouragement and the reminder.

Emma Says:

January 6th, 2009, 9:52 am

Love it! About time someone told me this! :) Thanks!

Rashin D'Angelo Says:

January 6th, 2009, 9:56 am

You are absolutely right. The only time in “now”.

Yann Says:

January 6th, 2009, 10:03 am

Your post is great of course.
Maybe we all know or we all have the “intution”.
It is related to the number one of your “My Four commandments” : Be present.
But as @copaX asked : the real question is how to practice.
It’s a

Yann Says:

January 6th, 2009, 10:05 am

well this is the end of my comment :
It’s a real Zen concept.

Owen Sheppard Says:

January 6th, 2009, 10:05 am

All your posts are awesome Leo.

Thank you so, so, so, so, so, so, so, much.

Tess THe Bold Life Says:

January 6th, 2009, 10:08 am

Leo,
I could sit and stress about not knowing how to make the changes I want on my blog and always needing to pay someone.

However, no time for that I’m going golfing with friends today (I’ve had 2 lessons!) and then they’re coming to my house for lunch.

When I can walk away from my computer and feel good even when I’m stuck. I know I’m happy;)

Christa Says:

January 6th, 2009, 10:25 am

How timely! Thank you.

I am working on my post for today about “Practicing Joy”–the concept being very much the same. It is always nice to get another persons perspective.

Suzi Pomerantz Says:

January 6th, 2009, 10:28 am

Great post, Leo! I just posted one about happiness for 2009 as well…did you know Yes!Magazine tells us the 10 things that scientists say will make you happy? Check it out here:
http://www.suzipomerantz.com/executiveexcellence/10-happiness-hints/

I’d love your comments!
Cheers,
Suzi

Shelly Says:

January 6th, 2009, 10:31 am

I think this is my favorite post so far.

This is so true! For years, I was always thinking that if I just reached the next step I’d be happy. Graduating high school, graduating college, getting the right job, finding the right medication to manage my chronic pain disorder, etc. . . I was anxious and depressed because I never seemed to get to the happy point.

I had a turning point a couple of years ago, and while I never specifically told myself this, it’s essentially what I did. My eyes opened and I realized that I was really in a happy place, with a great husband, a job I’m skilled at with great co-workers, a wonderful family. . . the list of things to be happy for was endless. And on the days where I’m not happy, it’s usually because I get caught up in something and forget for a moment just how wonderful my life really is.

I’ve also realized that my friends haven’t reached this point yet, and watching them be unhappy because they are still waiting for that next step to happiness drives me crazy. I plan to share this with all of them, because you’ve said it better than I ever could. And I think I’m going to put that happiness sentence in front of my desk at work to remind me, too.

banji - LessonInLife Says:

January 6th, 2009, 10:43 am

Do not wait for happiness. Hm that’s really simple and true.

I wonder whether the phrase “Pursue of Happiness” is subconsciously telling us the opposite message

james Says:

January 6th, 2009, 10:44 am

Happiness isn’t something you obtain. It’s something you do. Wander through google about “marcus aurelius” or “stoic philosophy”. As in:

http://www.google.ca/search?rlz=1C1GGLS_en-USCA296CA303&q=marcus+aurelius+in+a+minute

real style real people Says:

January 6th, 2009, 11:08 am

that was really helpful and inspirtional for me!!!! I needed some kind of boost today! Take good care!

Caleb - Double Your Gains Says:

January 6th, 2009, 11:11 am

Leo!

This is truly great advice, in fact, I think this post should be “zen habits 101″ because it really, really is, the SECRET to happiness.

And you’re right, all the self-help sellers would go out of business if people could just master this… but then again… it’s not as easy as it sounds, so they’ll always have jobs :)

Great post Leo!

Caleb

Iyabo Asani Says:

January 6th, 2009, 11:21 am

Great post. Great reminder.

Marci Schimoff in her book, “Happy for No Reason” said that she met a gentleman once who had studied linguistics. He said that in 1776 when the Constitution of the United States of America was written, the term “pursuit” meant “to practice.”

So when the framers of the Constitution said that in this country, we have the inalienable right to practice happiness, they wanted us to have the freedom, opportunity and awareness to make a habit of happiness.

Your post fits right into that.

When we practice happiness, obviously, it is in the NOW!

Thanks

Iyabo Asani
http://www.AuthenticChangeCoach.com

Josh Says:

January 6th, 2009, 11:37 am

Leo, I’ve been reading your blog on and off for maybe 2 years and this is the best post yet.

I have scrawled the mantra on a post-it note which is affixed to my LCD here at work.

mark Says:

January 6th, 2009, 11:39 am

For anyone who has suffered with depression as I have for most of my adult life, being happy seems like an elusive goal. One day things are ok or even great and the next, you’re spiraling down your personal abyss again.

This is a make or break year for reasons that are personal.

Starting the 31st, I have changed my diet after getting a copy of “The UltraMind Solution” by Mark Hyman. I need to help my self and getting educated about my body and brain chemistry is the first step. I’ve taken drugs and it helped but it didn’t treat the underlying problem. That’s what he covers but there is much more as well.

I highly recommend seeing “Yes Man” - a silly movie but a great message that people like me need.

Ioan Says:

January 6th, 2009, 11:58 am

hello Leo and Universe,

Reading your article is another proof for me of the existence of a higher power, no matter how we call it. :)

Second as happiness, here and now, is GOD, it reminds me that it is a matter of choice.

I choose to be happy no matter what objectives I have, no matter if I achieve them or not.

Thank you Leo, Thank you Zen Habits, Thank you Universe.

Anne Wayman Says:

January 6th, 2009, 12:21 pm

Amen, or whatever the zen equivalent is ;)

Anne Wayman now blogging at http://www.aboutfreelancewriting.com

Bruce Kelly Says:

January 6th, 2009, 12:26 pm

Forget about the destination and enjoy the ride is one of my mantras. Unfortunately, I tend to forget it myself sometimes. This is not only an excellent post but it has the added benefit of most excellent timing. Thanks so much for the reminder.

Harry Says:

January 6th, 2009, 12:32 pm

Thanks Leo.

This is the best blog post I’ve read so far in 2009!

It’s so true to be happy here and now, cause that’s all we have. I recommend two books, Power of Now, and Happiness for No Reason, which will help you gain more wisdom on how to be truely happy.

Harry
http://www.GoalsOnTrack.com

Clarity Jones Says:

January 6th, 2009, 12:46 pm

I totally agree with these tips. I’d like to add that I have been following the “take on a new skill” every year. Sometimes the new skill doesn’t end up being what I initially thought, something else interesting comes up and catches my focus. After time, acquiring different abilities and many new experiences has allowed me to achieve the lifestyle that I dreamed of and to be closer to that person I imagined I’d like to be.

Kat Tansey Says:

January 6th, 2009, 12:58 pm

Great post! I write about being in the now, finding joy where you are, in Choosing to Be: Lessons in Living from a Feline Zen Master. As the title indicates, many of my lessons came from the bewhiskered mouth of a wise Maine Coon cat.

Dawn Says:

January 6th, 2009, 13:01 pm

YES YES YES…I love this one…will have to link you on my blog!!

Maya Says:

January 6th, 2009, 13:23 pm

Happiness comes from within. Working happiness inside out is the only way to be - or the only way that has ever worked for me. Learning to be happy has made goals easier to accomplish - so rather than thinking I need to accomplish my goals to be happy, I have started thinking about being in a state of happiness first - which has made it incredibly easier for me to accomplish my goals.

Great post Leo.

Do check out my blog - I have posted a lot about Happiness recently and the comments/participation has been an eye opener for me.

Usama Says:

January 6th, 2009, 13:29 pm

What a great post!
I , too, spent a great part of my life waiting to be happy when I reach my destination. When I did not reach my destination, I felt really miserable. I am learning now though to enjoy the journey and enjoy my life as is.
Thank you very much for a great post and a great blog :-)

Amy-Lynn Says:

January 6th, 2009, 13:34 pm

Shakespeare said that silence was the most perfect herald of joy - that if he could actually say how happy he was, then he wasn’t really as happy as he could be. Nothing speaks as loudly of happiness as silence.

That our world is such a noisy, blaringly loud place wherever humans congregate, only reveals our collective unhappiness and inability to make the most of the present time.

Life Organizer Blog | Kate Says:

January 6th, 2009, 14:02 pm

Words of wisdom!

Today I have already been blessed with the staggering beauty of a snowfall and a golden purple sunset. I love these moments, these miracles in life and I think some of my art work tries to extend those moments.

I find immeasurable pleasure in beauty, in small miracles. People. Flavours… In being present.

James NomadRip Says:

January 6th, 2009, 16:59 pm

Leo, please post this every day. I have a short attention span, and a night’s sleep erases my short-term memory. I need to be reminded of this constantly. See? You’ll always have something to do!

Chris Says:

January 6th, 2009, 17:35 pm

And enjoying the journey takes the pressure of the outcome!

Great post! One to help keep all thiose New Year’s resolutions in perspective!

Ed Says:

January 6th, 2009, 18:05 pm

Thank You! Thank You! Thank You! Thank You! Thank You! Thank You! Thank You! Thank You! Thank You!

I have no other way to express my gratitude. Thanks for writing this article!

Ed from GA

Jacqui Says:

January 6th, 2009, 19:19 pm

This is so timely when everyone is focussed on the promise of the New Year.
I must admit I spend so much energy on my goals that I often look past the beauty and abundance of the Present. Thank you for the nudge - and a consistently thought-provoking, uplifting blog.
Jacqui

Dan Massicotte Says:

January 6th, 2009, 20:07 pm

For goals, put differently, the best goal is to be happy. Because instead of living for a future date, being happy brings that future date to the present.

Being happy today will do one of two things for your goals: Either you will accomplish the faster because your mood will be more receptive, or you will change them for something that is finer attuned to your happy-way-of-life.

Self Love Says:

January 6th, 2009, 21:57 pm

Fantastically simple - stop waiting for the next ‘thing’ you need to be happy. This is an excuse not to be happy now, once you get that thing, there will always be something else you are waiting to get or be before you can be happy.

Metaphysical Junkie Says:

January 6th, 2009, 22:29 pm

What a great post! This is so dead on with what I’ve been thinking about lately regarding my New Years resolution, which I ultimately decided should be to keep my psyche positive and running smooth. Reading this reaffirmed my decision in such a powerful and positive way. Thanks!

Ruth Says:

January 6th, 2009, 23:57 pm

I’m right there with you on the decluttering. I’ve never felt so free and spacious as I have this week getting rid of boxes and boxes of notes and papers that have been hanging around here for ever. There’s a really great book on the topic called Your Spacious Self by Stephanie Bennett Vogt. Following the process she outlines has definitely left me feeling lighter, less attached, more in the flow!

randomguru Says:

January 7th, 2009, 0:14 am

from my experience it’s true that you yourself decide to be happy now. and now depend on attaining material wealth or success to make you happy.

i personally had a very bad year in 2008. had 4 people i had known for a long time pass away. became virtually unemployed because of the economic turmoil. and for xmas i basically had no money to give gifts, nice ones that i normally would’ve given during better times.

sometimes i ponder between the realities of my life and the notion that i can be happy in the here and now. i was a caregiver to my father-in-law who died of pancreatic cancer. it was the toughest thing i’ve ever done but it was worth it when he told me he appreciated all i did for him.

the buddha says “life is suffering”. but there is a path to salvation and enlightenment. something we all strive for and it’s already within us all. we just have to find it.

Charles Tutt Says:

January 7th, 2009, 0:57 am

Leo,
I read, subscribe to and own everything you publish. I think you’re a real inspiration and a bulwark to/for a wonderful NEW (simply because of your personal style and popularity) global outlook and attitude toward life-liberty-and-the-pursuit of-HAPPINESS and personal purpose and fulfillment.

This particular post makes me think of an old phrase: ” Divine Discontent”. That seems to be the place where most of us find ourselves. Your post simply and adroitly addresses that common issue we all share. And blatently–bluntly points out the one and only solution!

I love you Leo for what you’re doing.
Charles

J.D. Meier Says:

January 7th, 2009, 4:40 am

One of the recurring themes that hit me is that happiness is a decision.

I remember the Last Lecture asking you to choose whether you’re Eeyore or Tigger so that was in the back of my mind.

The other thing I kept hitting was the Pygmalion effect - where you get what you expect.

So the key was decide to be happy … and you get what you expect.

Vincent Says:

January 7th, 2009, 5:20 am

Very insightful perspective on happiness in the “moment” Leo.
Living the “moment” and appreciating every step of the journey is huge. We all at times get caught in the “rat race” and forget to step back and realize the happiness of the “moment”.
“Innocence is lost when the smallest things cannot make you happy.”

Jim @ Change Jar Svaings Says:

January 7th, 2009, 10:01 am

Great post Leo!

I have always told my wife and kids the first step to becoming happy is deciding to be happy. Happy is a state of mind. You can change YOUR attitude if you want. It is YOUR mind and YOUR attitude. No one els can make you happy if you don’t want to be happy.

Elizabeth Says:

January 7th, 2009, 10:32 am

Wow, this really puts my goals in perspective! It’s so easy to be focused on the goal that I forget to enjoy what I have now. Thanks for the reminder. :)

Moi Says:

January 7th, 2009, 10:50 am

What a great reminder! I feel a little inspired!

AntonioCuauro Says:

January 7th, 2009, 11:53 am

We always pursue something: The Pulitzer, the Oscars, a million bucks; but we don’t see the true value of what we have right now: a Hug, kiss of your soulmate, looking at the blue sky, those are the true meanings of life!.

Good Post, keep up the good work.

Adrienne Tange Says:

January 7th, 2009, 12:10 pm

Nothing like a life-changing event such as being diagnosed with a rare chronic disease to realize you better not wait to be happy or to do things you were planning to do later. Before that I was one of those “if only I could do this or have that, I will be happy” kind-of-person. Now I definitely appreciate each day and live in the “now” and am a much happier person.:-)

Suzanne B. Says:

January 7th, 2009, 12:28 pm

Amazing article!

I wrote a post about it on my blog! Hope you can come over and visit!

Thank you for the inspiration!
http://crunchygreenmom.blogspot.com/2009/01/i-am-on-day-three-of-my-working-out.html

Fred - NYC Criminal Lawyer Says:

January 7th, 2009, 13:33 pm

“Stop waiting for happiness. Happiness is right here, right now” is so true. Waiting for “it” to happen tomorrow will lead to a miserable existence.

Jenny Blake Says:

January 7th, 2009, 14:28 pm

Thanks Leo - this is a great reminder to enjoy the life we have right now. I wrote a similar post called “enough” and started with the following quote:

Breathe in and say, “What I have is enough.”
Breathe out and think, “What I am is enough.”
Breathe in and say, “What I do is enough.”
Breathe out and think, “What I have achieved is enough.”
-Barbara Ann Kipfer

You can read more here: http://www.lifeaftercollege.org/blog/2008/12/04/enough/

Gavin B Says:

January 7th, 2009, 14:34 pm

A great mantra to live by, thank you Leo

Sunshine Says:

January 7th, 2009, 14:48 pm

Right on! I was living it but I cannot hear this advice enough. It’s still a relatively new phenomena to think like this.

dadshouse Says:

January 7th, 2009, 17:17 pm

I agree - happiness is right there. You just have to be in the moment. Give love. Live from a compassionate heart.

Great advice for single parents who may feel they are doing it all alone.

Kalcifa Says:

January 7th, 2009, 17:56 pm

Wow thats great! I have been trying to pass this on to some people for a long time. How refreshing that others feel and know this to!

Mikko Says:

January 7th, 2009, 18:00 pm

I want to be more productive, learn a lot more, and get rid of unnecessary clutter while keeping my 3000-4000 books. But writing a book - no way! That was a part of my earlier career, it’s time to move on.

Wakish Says:

January 7th, 2009, 19:21 pm

I guess I would be the 126th commentor, I’m happy right here, right now! :)

Leo, I have been reading some of your articles last year and this is the first for this year 2009. You are an amazingly wonderful person; you are someone with a keen sense of life, a mature person at its full potential. Really I have no words to describe the “wonderfullness” that I feel by reading your article.

Leo you are a gem among writers and inspirational personalities alike. And your close friends in real life are really lucky to have a great friend like you, I’m dead sure about this and I guess your wife would the luckiest one of all! :)

For this new year 2009, I wish and pray for a great and healthy year for you so that you continue with your humble philosophies of changing the life of people as you are doing in this blog.

Cheers!
- Wakish -

Word dancer Says:

January 7th, 2009, 19:30 pm

Hi Leo,

Great post. Some things are so easy yet so difficult. It is so simple yet so many people find it so difficult to achieve.

Happiness is a state of mind - you think it, it happens.
If you decide to be happy, you are.

Peter S Says:

January 8th, 2009, 1:30 am

I like feeling pleasantly groggy in the morning…and I just realized that before bed, I also feel pleasantly groggy. :)

Martin Wildam Says:

January 8th, 2009, 8:34 am

You are bringing it to an important point!

I remember my journey into Zen: In the beginning a tree is just a tree, then when you dive into Zen, a tree is not a tree any more and then a tree is again just a tree. But you feel different looking at the tree.

I think, it is similar for the happiness and personal development.

Duncan Rayner Says:

January 8th, 2009, 9:17 am

OMG!!! Thank you soooo much for this post!!
Brilliant!!

Can’t stay and chat I have some Journeying ahead of me.

Thank you.

Karol Adamczyk Says:

January 8th, 2009, 9:24 am

Great advise!

And great to read all the positive comments!

Adrilia Says:

January 8th, 2009, 13:05 pm

Brilliant! This is the best, most inspiring turn-of-the-year writing I have seen. I wish high school and college students could read this … you know, young’ins at the stage when they feel kings of the world. I wish companies made your article mandatory reading especially to their customer service staff. Such great perspective. Thank you for a great post.

Filip Says:

January 8th, 2009, 19:11 pm

I went through both ‘i’ll be happy after x’ and ‘I’ll be happy now’. And neither worked. ‘Now’ is too short.

Then I thought - I have everything necessary for happiness. If I can’t be happy next week, I never will. I tried ‘be happy next week’. This gave me time to book a concert, plan a weekend out, schedule the evenings… magic.

Neo Says:

January 8th, 2009, 21:00 pm

I usually read your posts through a RSS reader which doesn’t allow my to comment. But this one hit the nail on the head so spot on that I just had to come on the site and tell you what a fantastic read this was.

Thank you!

Martin Wildam Says:

January 9th, 2009, 3:17 am

@Filip: What you did is scheduling some fun which actually increases the possibility to be happy. This sounds very good as I guess you were very hard working without having fun before.

Next action: Be happy either when you are working or doing other necessary things that are not dedicated fun.

hootsh Says:

January 9th, 2009, 12:19 pm

In short, be content with what you have, but at the same time don’t give up on your goals.

Healthy Weight Loss Girl Says:

January 9th, 2009, 15:41 pm

Great Post! I agree with you, setting goals is ok as long as you remember to enjoy the journey. Don’t let your goals be something that you dread on a daily basis.

Liara Covert Says:

January 9th, 2009, 20:44 pm

To choose to be happy now is such a powerful thought. As people realize the impact of their thoughts changes the world one thought at a time, they begin to nurture more faith in how and what they think.This is another example of how the world is as beautiful and meaningful as you choose. Thanks for reminding us of one of those things we know deep inside, but do not take seriously.

Tman Says:

January 9th, 2009, 23:03 pm

Thanks for the great post. It fit right with the book I just finished and highly recommend, “Enjoy the ride” by Steve Gilliland. Too many times I’m rushing to the destination, and never looking for opportunities to enjoy the journey. I’m making this a habit in ‘09

Kay Says:

January 10th, 2009, 2:16 am

Great tips!!!
thank you!

Caramel Says:

January 10th, 2009, 8:09 am

This is such a fantastic message!! The universe would probably reach its potential if everyone believed in it.

Amy @ Literacy Launchpad Says:

January 10th, 2009, 14:06 pm

Thanks for this great post. It’s so true! Wow, so true!

Todd M Says:

January 10th, 2009, 15:40 pm

What an incredible post, Leo!

Similar to other readers, I scour blogs looking for ideas to improve my productivity, lower stress levels, etc., but the happiness `tenent` in your blog is really a silver bullet for me.

Thanks for the post!

Paula McConnell Says:

January 12th, 2009, 21:45 pm

Leo,

Well said. Thank you.

Paula

Siosphere Says:

January 13th, 2009, 0:38 am

I’ve tried to be happy with what I have…I don’t need expensive things, or lots of money to be happy, my wants are much simpler, all I want is a connection with someone, I’ve moved away from all my friends, and I don’t have a best friend, or anyone….so you say that be happy with what you have, it’s not quite that simple…though I’ve tried. I’m not happy with what I have.

Susie Says:

January 19th, 2009, 8:17 am

THANK YOU! You’ve made me realise that it is the journey that is important & that if things were “perfect” how boring that would be. So, I’m off to have fun enjoying the ride :)

Jermaine Says:

January 20th, 2009, 0:12 am

GREAT POST! I can remember thinking so many times if I had more money I would be happier. And when it happened, I was depressed, lonely, and miserable. I sacrificed so much to achieve that goal to later find out it was not worth it. Now I just enjoy the things I do have, even though I still get off track on occasion. Thanks for the reminder ;-)

kannan viswagandhi Says:

January 21st, 2009, 14:36 pm

Hi Leo,

Great post.
Now and then,we have to remind ourselves that ‘NOW’ is the greatest gift we have.

Thanks,
Kannan

Jiovanni Says:

March 15th, 2009, 21:30 pm

I wanted to scream YES! when I read this wonderful tip. THE tip of all tips. I’ve been learning that a lot lately. It’s been incredible and I’ve been doing so much more since I’ve looked at life like this. Of course, life is not always roses but now, I’m able to go through that negative emotion and then quickly move on and see the good in the experience.