5 Simple Steps to Break Free from Misery

My grandmother had a beautiful way of imparting wisdom through simple actions. Whenever she could afford to buy me new shoes for Christmas, she would say, look at these; they are absolutely beautiful. Try them on. But remember, if they make you uncomfortable, they are not your size. This lesson resonates deeply with life: nobody is in charge of your happiness but you. If you wait for life to sort itself out and become problem-free for you to be happy, you might wait forever - perhaps until it’s too late.

I recall a story a friend once shared. He visited his uncle and noticed the dog making strange sounds while sitting in a corner. When he asked his uncle about it, his uncle replied, I think it’s sitting on the nails at the edge of the bench. My friend then asked why the dog didn’t just move instead of sitting there moaning. His uncle said, I guess it’s not hurting enough yet. Oftentimes, just like the dog, we react to situations that make us miserable by complaining instead of taking action.

The power to change our circumstances and find true happiness lies within us. As Orison Swett Marden once said, There are powers inside of us which, if we could discover and use, would make of us everything we ever dreamed or imagined we could become. Let’s explore five simple steps to help you break free from misery and take control of your happiness.

1. Find the Source of Your Unhappiness

The first step towards ending misery is identifying its root cause. Reflect on your life and pinpoint what contributes to your unhappiness. It could be a toxic relationship, an unfulfilling job, or unaddressed emotional issues. Understanding the source empowers you to make the necessary changes.

2. Know What Will Make You Happy

Once you’ve identified the source of your unhappiness, it’s crucial to know what truly brings you joy. Explore your passions, interests, and values. What activities or experiences make you feel alive and fulfilled? Knowing what makes you happy will provide a clear direction for your journey toward a happier life.

3. Make Decisions

With a clear understanding of what makes you happy, it’s time to make decisions that align with your desires. This may involve making difficult choices and stepping out of your comfort zone. Trust yourself and have the courage to make decisions that will lead you to a more fulfilling life.

4. Plan Your Transition Wisely

Transitioning from misery to happiness requires careful planning. Create a roadmap that outlines the steps needed to achieve your goals. Break down your plan into smaller, manageable tasks and set realistic deadlines. This will help you stay focused and motivated throughout the process.

5. Take Risks

Life is full of uncertainties, but taking risks is often necessary for personal growth and happiness. Embrace the unknown and be open to new possibilities. Remember, as my grandmother wisely said, If it makes you uncomfortable, it’s definitely not your size. Take calculated risks, step out of your comfort zone, and embrace the opportunities that come your way.

The power to stop being miserable lies within each of us. By identifying the source of our unhappiness, knowing what brings us joy, making decisions, planning our transition wisely, and taking risks, we can break free from misery and create a happier and more fulfilling life. As the saying goes, If you can’t change how it makes you feel, then change how you feel about it. So, take charge of your happiness and start living a life filled with joy and fulfilment.