Happiness Is Not a Checklist

It is not found in recipes, templates or to do lists.

“Personal happiness lies in knowing that life is not a checklist of acquisition. Your qualifications are not your life.” — J.K. Rowling

You can’t checklist your way to happiness.

It is not found in completed tasks, achievements or acquisitions. It is not the result of a transaction. With each box you check, happiness is no closer than before.

Does a dream job bring happiness?

Happiness is not found in the job itself. It is found in the joy you have for your work. It is found in the people you create and share with.

Does a fast car bring happiness?

Happiness is not found in the speed or quality of a fine car. It is found in the many places now available to you. It is found in shared experiences with fellow travelers.

Does a good home bring happiness?

Happiness is not found in the brick, stone or wood of a quality home. It is found in the people who live within and the memories you make together. It is found in small moments of comfortable silence.

Does love bring happiness?

Happiness is not found in all forms of love. Love can be turbulent, demanding and heartbreaking. Happiness is found in simple pleasures enjoyed together as love ripens into companionship.

“Happiness is not a checklist. A dream job, a fast car, a good home, even love, mean nothing at all if you have not yet found a way to feel full and content in your own mind and heart.” — Beau Taplin

Happiness lies in experiences rich with contentment.

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🤔 Food for Thought:

What experiences have brought you happiness?

Who have you enjoyed those experiences with?

What simple pleasures bring the most happiness?

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⚙️ One Small Step:

We tend to look for checklists or recipes even with happiness. If you find yourself succumbing to such transactional thinking, reflect on what has made YOU happy in the past. Where does your contentment lie? Just go there and ditch the lists.