Scholar-Journalist of the Week: Choose to be happy each day!

When asked what does happiness mean for Muskaan Kohli, the MBA student with Apeejay Institute of Management and Engineering Technical Campus (AIMETC) shares, “A single definition of happiness is incredibly elusive. Many other concepts come to mind when we consider what it means to be happy, including joy, pleasure, satisfaction, gratitude, contentment, peace of mind, social connection, acceptance, a feeling of purpose, or wellbeing. However, a sense of safety and security in our life, as well as our physical health, can play a role in our level of happiness. Happiness has a lot to do with our feelings and emotional states.”

Thus, the Apeejay student recently penned down an article ‘Choose to be happy each day!’ in which she explains how happiness and joy are available to everyone, but it can be difficult to access those feelings when one is struggling with negative thoughts and emotions. And so, Muskaan mentions that it’s important to keep oneself motivated even during stressful times. In this week’s scholar-journalist interview, the winner says how taking small steps can make oneself happy. Read edited excerpts: 

Why did you decide to write on this topic ‘Choose to be happy each day’

I chose this topic because I see some people around me are busy in their lives yet they are not happy with their routine. They are just letting themselves go with their life. And in their busy schedule of working and managing their families, they have forgotten their happiness and joy, which isn’t a healthy thing for any individual. So by watching these people, who are not 100% happy, I thought that through my article, I will be able to inspire them.

How do you keep yourself motivated and happy? 

People often think things like money or luxury lead to happiness. But in my opinion, simple experiences like spending time with family or practicing gratitude may promote a healthier outlook towards life. It’s great to feel excited and confident about achieving your goal. Being optimistic is also important. One must also realise that every day may not go exactly as planned, and that’s okay. Life happens! 

Also Read: Choose to be happy each day!

One way to boost motivation on difficult days is simply think ‘this shall pass’ and keep smiling. I try to keep myself happy by thinking that if what I wanted is not done, it is just because it was not meant to be for me .

Some people dwell in negative thoughts without being aware of the same. How should one avoid that?

Negative thoughts can be a factor in issues including low self-esteem, melancholy, stress, and social anxiety. Understanding how you think currently (and the issues that occur) is the key to changing your negative ideas. After that, utilise techniques to alter these thoughts or lessen their impact.

Our thoughts influence how we feel and act since our thoughts are connected to our emotions and behaviours. I would suggest whenever anyone feels that they are getting negative thoughts, they should meditate or read books or should talk to a friend or any family member about it without hesitation. It’s because sometimes talking can solve many problems as it allows you to vent out your pent up emotions. Sometimes talking about everything with one whom you trust is the biggest positive therapy . 

Do you think reading self-help books help in keeping oneself happy?

Certainly, books can give you many ideas of being happy.

Small steps one can take to make their loved ones happy 

Think about going to your favourite restaurant, seeing a movie, or taking the vacation you’ve always wanted to take. Even if you’re a social butterfly, taking some time to yourself can help you rediscover the things that make you happy in the long run.