The Next Thing Will Make You Happy

Nope.

Something I’ve dealt with over the past few weeks is this mindset: If I can just finish this thing, my life will be better, I’ll be happier.

It’s a thought process that seems harmless at first, since after all, as we discussed in my blog post about starting points, focusing on goals can provide a clear direction. But after some reflection, I realized how misleading this mindset actually is.

The declaration of happiness coming from a single task, like doing well on an exam, finishing a long-term project, or tackling a big problem, creates the narrative that happiness is something that we chase, when in reality, it is something we can create in the moment.

It turns to-do lists into emotional finish lines, and I find myself always running toward the “better me“.

But in reality, finishing the thing doesn’t make my life happier. Or easier. Or better at all. There is that moment of relief, but it goes away just as quickly as it came. Because then, a new task emerges. A new reason to say this mantra. You’re not going anywhere. It’s a cycle, and it benefits no one.

So, how can we challenge this mindset?

Being present in the moment is extremely satisfying, even when the work is challenging, and in addition, recognizing gratitude for the chance to engage and participate in whatever work is happening can really change your perspective on things.

I recently watched a video where someone put a down payment on a house, but then quickly backed out of it after thinking, “Will this truly make me happier? I should feel lucky I have what I have”.

This really resonated with me because we can always search for the next big thing, but in reality, sometimes it’s right in front of us.

Another big problem with this mentality is that by putting all of our focus on one task, we lose sight of other areas in our lives that positively impact us. Spending time with loved ones, pursuing simple hobbies, and even just resting don’t require hard work or finishing everything. Life has many aspects, and true happiness can only come from boosting each part in its own regard.

Also, this outlook makes me think that whatever I’m doing to achieve something, just isn’t enough. To me, that’s one of the worst parts of thinking this way. If you practice self-confidence, you can let go fo the perfectionism, and instead accept that the idea that just trying your best is enough.

And this is all really hard. I’m a perfectionist, I always want to try my best, and honestly, sometimes I have the mindset that anything below 100% on an assignment is bad. It’s really not. So, focus on your happiness and your work. Keep a good balance.

Remind yourself that happiness won’t come from completing your to-do list; it’s on your to-do list, so don’t forget to check it off!

-Isaiah

P.S. — I know this is a shorter post than the ones recently, I have been super busy! I’ll be away for part of next week, and I hope to post again on Thursday (6/19)!