What Does Wellness Look Like?
Connect to the self to connect more with others
Most folks are as happy as they make up their minds to be. — Abraham Lincoln
Mr. President, I wish that was absolutely true. But in my journey through a life marred by depression, anxiety, and likely ADHD, I’ve heard many a definition of happiness and how one achieves it. We’ve all heard the following, in one form or another:
“Money can’t buy happiness”
“Happiness only comes from within”
“Being happy comes from accepting what you have”
“True happiness comes from serving others”
“Happiness is a warm puppy”
While all the above carry a germ of truth in a very general sense, defining “happiness,” “mental health” or “self-acceptance” is no easy feat since entire professions are founded thereupon.
How do we know we’re happy and mentally sound/healthy/progressing? Must we rely upon a professional pronouncement? Do we instead seek the cozy feeling of certainty in an uncertain world?
Is it that nebulous state in which we know is “exactly where we need/want to be?” Or shall we patiently wait for the people, things, and events we need or desire to begin appearing in our lives?
