For years, I was chasing happiness like it was something just around the corner. One more achievement, one more vacation, one more “like” on social media—and then I’d finally be happy. But no matter how much I achieved, the feeling was fleeting. It was like drinking salt water: the more I consumed, the thirstier I became.
Eventually, I had to unlearn the habit of chasing happiness and start learning how to practice happiness instead. And let me tell you: there’s a big difference.
Chasing Happiness vs. Practicing It
When you chase happiness, it’s always in the future. It becomes conditional: “I’ll be happy when…” or “I’ll feel better once…” You attach your well-being to outcomes you can’t always control—like other people, money, or external validation.
But when you practice happiness, it becomes part of your daily life. It’s rooted in the present moment and driven by intention, not circumstance. Practicing happiness means creating small habits, choosing your mindset, and finding contentment in the here and now.
1. It Looks Like Being Present
Practicing happiness means putting down the phone, shutting off autopilot, and actually being where you are. It’s having a cup of coffee without scrolling, listening to someone without planning your response, and noticing the way sunlight hits the wall.
Mindfulness is at the heart of it. You stop waiting for happiness to arrive later and start noticing that it’s already here—if you slow down long enough to see it.
2. It Looks Like Gratitude Over Greed
Chasing happiness is often rooted in scarcity: “If I just had more…” But practicing happiness is rooted in gratitude. It’s about appreciating what you already have, even as you work toward more.
I started writing down three things I’m grateful for every day. Some days it’s deep—like support from a friend. Other days, it’s as small as warm socks or a delicious breakfast. But over time, I’ve trained my brain to spot joy in the ordinary.
3. It Looks Like Letting Go of Perfection
One major shift in my life came when I stopped trying to have a perfect day and focused on having a good moment. When you practice happiness, you give yourself permission to be messy, tired, emotional, or uncertain—and still find beauty in that.
Happiness doesn’t mean life is perfect. It means you’re willing to find meaning and peace even when it’s not.
4. It Looks Like Intentional Choices, Not Quick Fixes
Practicing happiness isn’t passive. It’s active. It’s saying no to things that drain you. It’s choosing rest over hustle. It’s cooking a meal instead of stress-ordering takeout. It’s going for a walk even when you’re tired because you know it grounds you.
These small, intentional decisions add up to a life that feels full, not frantic.
5. It Looks Like Inner Peace Over Outer Praise
When I chased happiness, I was always looking outside of myself for approval. Practicing happiness, however, has taught me to listen inward. I now ask myself: What do I need right now? What feels aligned? What brings me peace?
Inner peace is sustainable. External praise fades quickly.
Final Thoughts: Happiness Is a Practice, Not a Prize
Here’s the truth: happiness isn’t a destination—it’s a daily decision. It’s not something you’ll find after checking all the boxes or reaching some ideal life. It’s something you create through awareness, gratitude, and intention.
If you’re tired of the chase, maybe it’s time to shift. Start small. Start slow. Start where you are.
Because when you practice happiness instead of chase it, you realize it was never that far away to begin with.