As emotional exhaustion becomes widespread, it is important to cultivate happiness, says ABHI SINGHAL
Between the relentless pressure of work deadlines, financial worries, social comparisons, and a constant stream of bad news, many people today find themselves overwhelmed and emotionally drained. Frustration, burnout, and anxiety have become all too common, especially in a world where productivity often takes priority over peace of mind.
Yet, in the midst of this chaos there is one simple yet powerful tool we can all lean on anytime is: a positive mindset.
Chronic stress, especially due to high-pressure jobs or unrealistic expectations, slowly drains our emotional energy. Over a long period of time, it affects sleep, appetite, and even memory. Due to continuous pressure on the brain, it becomes nearly impossible to stay positive or feel hopeful about things. Mental well-being is about feeling capable, calm, and connected. Chronic stress deeply disturbs that balance,” says Dr Pavitra Shankar, Associate Consultant, Psychiatry at Aakash Healthcare.
Research has shown that 10 minutes of brisk walking can make a lot of difference, as during brisk walking, “feel-good” chemicals like endorphins are released. It has also been shown that expressing gratitude regularly also helps train your brain to be positive.
Connecting with friends regularly can also help you develop a more positive outlook. Regularly practicing breathing techniques, even for a few minutes daily, can help settle your mind. These small changes, done over a period of time, help maintain a positive outlook even during difficult times.” says Dr Pavitra. Ultimately, choosing happiness is an act of self-care, one that not only improves your health but also uplifts those around you. In the words of one wise proverb: A happy heart makes the face cheerful, but heartache crushes the spirit. And in today’s world, a cheerful face might just be the best medicine of all.
Points You Have To Remember
Start with Gratitude: Keeping a gratitude journal or simply reflecting on three good things each day can shift your mindset. It’s not about ignoring the negatives, but about training your brain to also recognise what’s going right.
Move your body: Physical activity — whether it’s a brisk walk or a dance session, all these release endorphins as our brain’s natural mood enhancers. Just 20 minutes a day can help boost your mood significantly.
Connect with Others: Human connection is a cornerstone of happiness. Regular interactions with family, friends, or even neighbours can ease anxiety and promote a sense of belonging. Volunteering is another powerful way to foster positivity. Avoid just socially connecting on the phones, try and meet physically and soak in the happy moments.
Mind Your Mind: Practising mindfulness or meditation helps break the cycle of negative thinking. Even five minutes of focused breathing can help reset your emotional state. Over time, mindfulness improves emotional regulation, reduces anxiety, and enhances awareness.
Limit Negativity
While staying informed is important, constant exposure to bad news or toxic social media can drain your energy. Curate your environment in both online and offline cases to support your mental wellbeing. This includes setting screen time boundaries, unfollowing accounts that trigger stress, and choosing uplifting content that nurtures your peace of mind.
Engage in Creative Expression
Hobbies like painting, journaling, gardening, or music allow emotional release and personal satisfaction. Engaging in creative pursuits can act as a form of meditation, helping you stay present and joyful.
Even 15 minutes of creativity everyday can help reset your mood and inspire positivity.
Celebrate your Small Wins
In a results-driven world, where we are judged on what big we achieve we often overlook minor ccomplishments. Taking time to celebrate small victories, whether finishing a book or making your bed will reinforces self-worth and brings a sense of progress. This habit builds confidence and shifts your mindset from scarcity to achievement. Always remeber small achievements bring happiness.
