11 things in life happy people never waste their time on

We often hear about all the things happy people do, but have you ever wondered what they don’t do? What do they steer clear from?

Believe it or not, the things happy people avoid are just as important to their joy and positivity.

Let’s dive into the 11 things that happy people never waste their time on.

1. Dwelling on the Past

Life is a journey, with its fair share of ups and downs.

Happy people understand this and don’t waste their time dwelling on past mistakes or misfortunes.

They believe in learning from the past, not living in it. Instead of holding onto regret or resentment, they focus on the present moment and look forward to the future.

They know that getting stuck in the past can only hold them back from enjoying today and making the most of tomorrow.

Remember, the past is a place of reference, not residence.

2. Worrying About the Future

While it’s essential to plan for the future, happy people don’t spend their time worrying about it.

They realize that life is unpredictable, and no amount of worrying can change that. Instead of fretting about what might happen, they focus on what they can control – their actions and attitudes in the present.

They set goals and work towards them, but they don’t let uncertainty steal their joy.

After all, the future isn’t promised, but we do have this moment right now. So why not make the most of it?

3. Comparing Themselves to Others

One thing I’ve noticed about truly happy people is that they never waste time comparing themselves to others.

I learned this lesson the hard way. I used to constantly compare my life, my achievements, even my looks to those around me. It was exhausting and honestly, it made me pretty miserable.

Then, one day, I realized that comparison is a thief of joy. It steals your happiness and makes you feel like you’re never good enough.

But the truth is, we’re all on our own unique paths. We all have different strengths, weaknesses, and life experiences.

Once I stopped comparing and started appreciating my own journey, I found a new sense of peace and happiness.

And guess what? You can too! Remember, life is not a competition. It’s about being the best version of yourself and celebrating your own progress.

4. Holding onto Grudges

Happy people understand that holding onto anger or resentment is akin to drinking poison and expecting the other person to fall ill. It only harms the bearer of these negative emotions.

Not only does letting go of grudges liberate us from unnecessary negativity, it significantly contributes to our mental health.

The energy spent on harboring grudges can be redirected towards more constructive and fulfilling endeavors.

So, the next time you find yourself clenching onto a grudge, remember this wisdom and choose to let it go.

Embrace forgiveness, for happiness is a much better companion to hold onto. 

5. Neglecting Self-Care

Happy people understand that they can’t pour from an empty cup. They know that taking care of their own mental, emotional, and physical health is not selfish, but essential. They never waste their time neglecting self-care.

Imagine a garden. If you don’t water the plants, give them sunlight, or take care of them, they’ll wither away. The same goes for us. If we don’t take care of ourselves, we can’t blossom and thrive.

So whether it’s taking a moment to breathe deeply, going for a walk in nature, reading a good book, or simply taking a nap when needed – happy people prioritize self-care.

And in doing so, they’re better equipped to bring joy and positivity to their own lives and those around them.

Remember, self-care is not self-indulgence – it’s self-respect.

6. Trying to Please Everyone

Now, this is something I’ve personally grappled with. Trying to make everyone around me happy was like chasing a mirage.

No matter how hard I tried, there was always someone who wasn’t completely satisfied.

Happy people understand that it’s impossible to please everyone, and most importantly, it’s not their job to do so.

They focus on being authentic and true to themselves. They honor their own needs and boundaries, even if it means saying ‘no’ sometimes.

The day I decided to stop being a people-pleaser was the day I truly started living. I found my voice, my self-worth, and my happiness.

And guess what? The people who truly cared about me still stuck around.

So remember, it’s okay to put yourself first sometimes – you’re just as important as anyone else. 

7. Living in Fear

Let’s face it, fear is a real party pooper. It stops us from taking risks, following our dreams, and can even hold us back in our personal relationships.

Happy people? They don’t have time for that. They understand that fear is a part of life, but they refuse to let it control them.

Sure, they feel scared sometimes – who doesn’t? But they don’t let those fears dictate their actions.

They know that stepping out of their comfort zone is where real growth happens. So they take the leap, even when they’re terrified.

Because at the end of the day, they’d rather face the fear of trying and failing, than live with the regret of never having tried at all.

When fear comes knocking on your door, remember this – life begins at the end of your comfort zone. Don’t let fear rob you of your happiness!

8. Negativity

Happy people steer clear of negativity, not merely because it dampens their spirits, but because they recognize its detrimental impact on their well-being.

Embracing a positive outlook is believed to contribute to a longer life, fewer instances of depression, and enhanced physical and psychological health.

Conversely, continuous negativity can sap your energy, escalate your stress, and undermine your overall happiness.

Whether it manifests as negative self-talk, a gloomy perspective, or toxic individuals, joyful people opt not to engage with it.

When you catch yourself being swept into a vortex of negativity, opt for a positive outlook instead.

Happiness is a choice – a deliberate decision that joyful individuals make daily. 

9. Chasing Perfection

This is a trap I’ve fallen into more times than I care to admit. Striving for perfection in every aspect of my life, only to be left feeling exhausted, unsatisfied and joyless.

Happy people though, they have figured this one out. They understand that perfection is an illusion.

There’s no such thing as a perfect life, a perfect job, or a perfect person. And that’s okay. Life is beautifully imperfect and that’s what makes it real and meaningful.

Since I’ve embraced my own imperfections and those of others, I’ve found a deeper sense of happiness and contentment.

So remember, it’s okay not to be perfect. Life isn’t about achieving perfection, but embracing our imperfections and still choosing to be happy.

10. Ignoring Their Passions

How many of us are guilty of sidelining our passions for things we deem more important?

Work, chores, obligations – they all seem to take priority, while the things that truly light us up get pushed to the backburner.

But happy people? They don’t play that game. They know that their passions are not just hobbies, but a vital part of who they are.

They make time for what they love because it fuels their happiness and gives them a sense of purpose.

Stop ignoring your passions. Life is too short not to do what makes your soul shine. 

11. Getting Sucked into Drama

Happy people don’t have time for drama – plain and simple.

They understand that getting involved in other people’s drama or creating their own doesn’t serve them in any way. It only leads to stress, conflict, and a whole lot of wasted time.

They choose to surround themselves with positivity and steer clear of unnecessary drama.

Because at the end of the day, peace of mind is far more important than being right or getting involved in situations that bring them down.

So, the next time you find yourself on the verge of being sucked into drama remember this – not your circus, not your monkeys! Preserve your peace and protect your happiness at all costs.

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Lachlan Brown

I’m Lachlan Brown, the founder, and editor of Hack Spirit. I love writing practical articles that help others live a mindful and better life. I have a graduate degree in Psychology and I’ve spent the last 15 years reading and studying all I can about human psychology and practical ways to hack our mindsets. Check out my latest book on the Hidden Secrets of Buddhism and How it Saved My Life. If you want to get in touch with me, hit me up on Facebook or Twitter.

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