One way to happiness is to follow that dream. When we follow our dreams and what ignites our passions, we can find our happy. And when we live our purpose—doing what we were born to do—things seem easier and happiness flows.

We all have dreams, but many times we don’t follow them. There are probably hundred of reasons, but here are some of the top ones.

First, it scares us. What if it didn’t work? Fear of failure is a genuine concern. But what about not trying? If something doesn’t work, then we can try another way or maybe just let it go. There is peace in letting go.

Second, is the uncertainty. What if I spend so much time doing something and realize I don’t like it? Sometimes in life we don’t know if we will like something until we try it. The question you have to ask yourself is, will I regret it later if I don’t do it?

Third, what will people think? There are many people who will tell you “why it won’t work” and few that tell you it just might. Constructive criticism is important because it brings in a different perspective, one you might have not thought about yet. But there are many naysayers who give you reasons why you shouldn’t, and all, if not most, have not even tried it. Listen to people to have traveled your path before because they have insight. To the ones who have not, unless it is constructive, just hit delete.

Only you know what is right for you. Follow your inner compass, not someone else’s. Yes, dreams will come with challenges, but they may take you somewhere you never even dreamt of being or doing.

Plus, you will inspire others to follow their dreams. When we see someone else who is working on their dreams, it gives us motivation to work on our own and find our happy.

Comparing

Comparing ourselves to others rather than embracing authenticity is a no-win battle. It is futile because all of us have different experiences. We are speculating based on what we see externally, not taking into account internal thoughts and emotions. Someone may look confident and happy but inside may feel insecure and sad. Or on the surface look successful and affluent, when in fact they feel unfulfilled and are living paycheck to paycheck. We really do not know others’ circumstances or internal beliefs. Often, the public persona is different than the private one.

Following one’s own path can be difficult at times because it may not fit into the boundaries of accepted society or personal opinions. Whether the path is creating a company, inventing a new product, starting a farm, writing songs, or acting, there will be people who say success is not possible. When Awkwafina won the 2020 Golden Globe for best actress in a comedy or musical, she dedicated the award to her father and said, “I told you I’d get a job, Dad.” She listened to her heart and followed her dream.

To be yourself in a world that is constantly trying to make you something else is the greatest accomplishment. — Ralph Waldo Emerson, American poet, essayist, philosopher

There’s no point in trying to become what we think others expect from us because we will get it wrong. We cannot correctly imitate someone else or guess another’s thoughts, no matter how much we try. If we attempt to be something we are not, the exceptional person we are meant to be will not shine through. We can take our power back by concentrating on our own strengths and gifts.

Always be a first-rate version of yourself and not a second-rate version of someone else. — Judy Garland, American actress, singer, dancer

Sometimes comparison can be used as a good tool, such as in finding gratitude. Being grateful for the blessings we have, such as access to healthcare, nourishing food, or a roof over our heads, when not everyone does, can make us appreciate how fortunate we truly are.

Peace and contentment come by staying in our own lane and not worrying what others think. When we are comfortable in our own skin, life is more enjoyable and we can find our happy.

Find Your Happy By Just Being Yourself

You are an original. There is only one you, and you are here for a reason. Embrace all your quirks and imperfections because you are unique. Bring out your silly, crazy, wonderful self. Shine your light into the world and the world will shine back.

Find people who accept you as you are and love you know matter what. You will know you are truly loved for being you because you will not feel a need to be someone else when you are around them. They only want the best for you and are not jealous or envious of your achievements. A true friend is someone who lifts you up to blossom as your own unique flower, not a version of theirs.

Real friends have our backs and helps us through life’s challenges. They are there to support us even if they do not agree with our choices. They will speak their opinions but at the same time will honor ours. I am blessed to have friends who do, especially my life-long friend Michelle. She accepts me for me with all my flaws.

A friend is someone who gives you total freedom to be yourself—and especially to feel, or not feel. Whatever you happen to be feeling at any moment is fine with them. That’s what real love amounts to—letting a person be what he really is. — Jim Morrison, American singer, songwriter, poet

New possibilities and great opportunities exist when you follow your dreams, don’t compare yourself to others, and just be yourself. Seek your own journey, not chase someone else’s. When you love yourself, live your truth, and pursue your own dreams, happiness will naturally present itself. Go out today and find your happy!

http://Photo by Alex Azabache on Unsplash