It really sounds simple, right? But the truth is, for a lot of us, that sentence is hard to believe. Somewhere along the way, we picked up the idea that happiness is something we have to earn that we need to “fix” ourselves first. That only when we’re doing enough, achieving enough, or being enough, do we get to be happy.
But that’s not how it works. Happiness isn’t a reward. It’s a right. And the sooner you realize that, the sooner you can start living in a way that honors your well-being, your peace, and your joy.
So let’s talk about it why you do deserve happiness, and how to start inviting more of it into your life.
Let us Be Real: What Is Happiness?
Happiness doesn’t mean walking around with a constant smile or pretending everything’s perfect. Life is messy, complicated, and unpredictable and being happy doesn’t mean ignoring the hard parts.
It means feeling connected to your life. It means making room for joy, even if it’s just for a moment. It means living in alignment with who you are, not who you think you should be.
Sometimes happiness is loud laughing with friends, dancing in your kitchen, getting great news. But sometimes it’s quiet a deep breath, a good cup of coffee, an evening walk that clears your head. It’s not about chasing highs. It’s about cultivating peace.
So Why Don’t We Believe We Deserve It?
There are a lot of reasons, honestly. Maybe you were taught to put others first. Maybe you’ve been through trauma, rejection, or heartbreak. Maybe you’ve internalized the idea that your worth is tied to your productivity. Or maybe you’re just tired because trying to be “okay” all the time is exhausting.
Whatever your reason, let me say this:
You don’t have to prove anything to deserve joy. You are worthy just as you are. Not when you’re more healed. Not when you’re more successful. Not when you’re less anxious or more confident or better looking. Now. Always.
How to Start Choosing Happiness?
Okay, now the real question: how do we actually start to live like we believe we deserve happiness?
Here are a few small, but powerful, places to begin:
1. Stop Waiting for Permission
You don’t need a sign. You don’t need someone to approve of your choices. You don’t need to “get it together” before you enjoy your life. Let go of the idea that happiness has to be earned, and start noticing the joy that already exists around you.
2. Redefine The Happiness
Forget the highlight reels and social media standards. What makes you feel good? What brings you peace? It might not look like anyone else’s version of happiness and that’s a good thing. Honor what feels true for you.
3. Let Go of Guilt
Wanting to feel good doesn’t make you selfish. Taking care of yourself doesn’t mean you’re neglecting others. You can be a kind, giving person and still choose to protect your own peace. In fact, the better you treat yourself, the more love you can show the world.
4. Find People Who Get It
Your environment matters. The people you spend time with matter. Spend more time around those who uplift you, who root for your growth, who make space for your joy. And if that means setting boundaries or walking away from toxic energy? That’s okay, too.
5. The Joyful Moments
Don’t wait for happiness to happen. Make space for it. Light a candle. Put on your favorite playlist. Text someone who makes you laugh. Dance barefoot. Go outside. Watch a movie that makes you cry in a good way. Schedule joy like it’s essential because it is.
Final Thoughts
We at Mentoring Minds Counsellors understand that you should not feel broken. You are a living, breathing, worthy human being. And you deserve a life that feels good to wake up to.
Happiness won’t always come easy but it’s never out of reach. Start with small moments of joy, small acts of kindness toward yourself, small reminders that you are allowed to feel good. Over time, those moments grow. And so do you.
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