Isabella Chase
Happiness is a choice, not a result. It’s something you actively pursue, not something that just happens to you.
When we prioritize our happiness, we consciously avoid certain behaviors that can drain our joy and peace of mind. These are what I call the ‘toxic behaviors’.
Now, avoiding these toxic behaviors isn’t always easy. But those who value their happiness have mastered the art of steering clear from these pitfalls.
In this article, I’ll share with you the 8 toxic behaviors that happy people avoid like the plague. Stick with me, and let’s journey towards a happier you.
1) Overthinking
We’ve all been there. Lying awake at night, replaying conversations in our heads, worrying about things that haven’t happened yet, and obsessing over every little detail.
Welcome to the world of overthinking.
Overthinking is a toxic behavior that can seriously sap your happiness. It’s like a hamster wheel of thoughts that just keeps spinning, preventing you from moving forward.
Happy people know this, and they consciously avoid falling into this trap. They understand that dwelling on problems doesn’t solve them, it only magnifies them.
Instead, they focus on things they can control and let go of the things they can’t. They have faith in their ability to handle whatever comes their way, and they trust that everything will work out in the end.
So if you want to prioritize your happiness, the first toxic behavior to kick to the curb is overthinking. It’s easier said than done, but remember: it’s the first step towards a happier you.
2) Holding onto grudges
I remember a time when someone close to me did something that really hurt my feelings. I was angry, upset, and felt betrayed. For a while, I held onto that grudge tight, like a security blanket of resentment.
But then I realized something. That grudge wasn’t hurting the person who wronged me. It was only hurting me. It was draining my energy, my peace, and most importantly, my happiness.
That’s when I learned one of the most important lessons about happiness: forgiving others is not about letting them off the hook. It’s about setting yourself free.
People who prioritize their happiness understand this. They know that holding onto grudges is like drinking poison and expecting the other person to get sick. It simply doesn’t work that way.
So they learn to let go. Not because the other person deserves forgiveness, but because they deserve peace.
So, if you’re holding onto any grudges, it might be time to let them go for your own sake. Trust me – it’s a weight off your shoulders and a big step towards prioritizing your happiness.
3) Neglecting self-care
Self-care is not a luxury, it’s a necessity. It’s about taking time out to recharge your batteries and look after your physical, mental, and emotional well-being.
In the constant hustle and bustle of life, it’s easy to forget to take care of ourselves. We tend to put everyone else’s needs before our own, often to the point of burnout.
Interestingly, the World Health Organization actually recognizes burnout as an official medical diagnosis. It’s described as a syndrome resulting from chronic workplace stress that hasn’t been successfully managed.
People who prioritize their happiness avoid this toxic habit of neglecting self-care. They understand that in order to take care of others, they first need to take care of themselves.
So if you find yourself constantly feeling run down, stressed out, or overwhelmed, it might be time to press pause and take some time for yourself. Remember, self-care isn’t selfish – it’s essential for your happiness.
4) Comparing themselves to others
In the age of social media, it’s easy to fall into the trap of comparing ourselves to others. We look at people’s highlight reels and start to feel inadequate about our own lives.
People who prioritize their happiness know better than to get caught up in this comparison game. They understand that everyone is on their own unique journey, with their own set of challenges and triumphs.
Instead of comparing themselves to others, they focus on their own progress. They celebrate their wins, no matter how small, and use their setbacks as opportunities for growth.
So next time you find yourself comparing your life to someone else’s, remember that you’re only seeing a fraction of their reality. Focus on your own path and your own happiness, because at the end of the day, that’s what truly matters.
5) Ignoring their emotions
Feelings are a part of the human experience. They’re not good or bad, they just are. Yet so often, we try to ignore or suppress our emotions, especially the tough ones like sadness, anger, or fear.
But ignoring our emotions is like trying to hold a beach ball underwater – it takes a lot of effort and eventually, it’s going to pop back up.
People who prioritize their happiness understand the importance of acknowledging and processing their feelings. They know that it’s okay to not be okay all the time. They allow themselves to feel their emotions, to sit with them and understand them.
They recognize that every emotion serves a purpose and offers a valuable lesson. And by embracing their feelings instead of ignoring them, they are able to heal, grow, and ultimately, find greater happiness.
So remember this: It’s okay to feel your feelings. Don’t ignore them, because they’re trying to tell you something. Let them in, learn from them, and then let them go. This is a key step towards prioritizing your happiness.
6) Striving for perfection
There was a time when I believed that in order to be successful or to be loved, I needed to be perfect. I put immense pressure on myself to meet these impossible standards, and when I inevitably fell short, I would beat myself up about it.
This pursuit of perfection is a toxic behavior that many of us fall into. It’s an endless cycle that leaves us feeling constantly dissatisfied and unhappy.
But the truth is, perfection doesn’t exist. We’re all humans, and we all make mistakes. People who prioritize their happiness understand this. They strive for progress, not perfection.
They focus on their growth and their journey, knowing that every misstep is an opportunity to learn and improve. They’re kind to themselves when they stumble, and they celebrate their efforts, not just their outcomes.
So if you find yourself striving for perfection, take a step back and be gentle with yourself. You are enough, just as you are. And that’s perfectly imperfect.
7) Living in the past or future
Have you ever noticed how much time we spend dwelling on past mistakes or worrying about future problems? This habit of constantly living in the past or the future can rob us of our current happiness.
People who prioritize their happiness avoid this toxic behavior. They understand that the past is a place of reference, not a place of residence, and that the future is full of uncertainty.
Instead, they choose to live in the present moment. They engage fully with what’s happening right now, savoring their experiences and finding joy in the everyday.
Remember, yesterday is history, tomorrow is a mystery, but today is a gift. That’s why it’s called the present. So make the most of it and focus on finding happiness in the here and now.
8) Surrounding themselves with negativity
The company we keep plays a significant role in our happiness. If we surround ourselves with negative people, it’s easy to become influenced by their pessimistic outlook.
People who prioritize their happiness are selective about who they allow into their lives. They choose to spend time with positive, uplifting individuals who encourage their growth and happiness.
So take a look at your circle. If there’s negativity, it might be time for a change. Surround yourself with positivity for a happier, more fulfilling life. There’s nothing more important than that when it comes to your happiness.
Final thought: It’s in our hands
The beauty of our human experience lies in our ability to shape and mold it as we see fit. This is especially true when it comes to our own happiness.
American writer and philosopher, Henry David Thoreau, once said, “Happiness is like a butterfly; the more you chase it, the more it will elude you. But if you turn your attention to other things, it will come and sit softly on your shoulder.”
In essence, happiness is not something we capture or achieve. It’s something we cultivate by creating a life that’s in line with our values and desires.
When we consciously avoid toxic behaviors, we’re not just enhancing our happiness. We’re creating a space for peace, growth, and fulfillment.
So as you journey through life, remember these toxic behaviors and make an active choice to avoid them. Choose happiness. After all, it’s in your hands.
