Happiness. It comes from within and not when you seek it. When I picked up the book The Happiness Story by Savi Sharma, I knew it was a book that I needed to read.
I have read many self-help books, but this one is close to my heart because of the relatable examples that the author has shared. The one thing that kept popping up for me was the need to let go, choose to love myself no matter what, and forgive myself.
Emotional Baggage
Nearly two years ago, I thought I had the dream job, and I was ecstatic because I got the chance to work full-time after nearly 13 years. I had chosen to be on a sabbatical after my boys were born, and I had chosen to freelance. What followed was loads of politics and a toxic workplace that I had never imagined would exist. I’d read about it, but to experience it was a different thing altogether. From questioning my capabilities to feeling unworthy, I had every negative experience that I could think of. And when I chose to leave that job, the next day day I woke up feeling lighter. But the anger I had resurfaced more often than I expected. On a clear sunny day, I would be reminded of an incident that I could have handled differently. After a few months, I decided I needed to vent it out. I was carrying a lot of emotional baggage.
Letting go
When I had discussed my emotional baggage with a friend, she told me this, “Think of life as a hike up a mountain. Your backpack has all that you need to get you to the summit, yet you cannot because the backpack feels super heavy. And that heaviness is the emotional baggage you are lugging around.”
That hit me, and I realized why the weight on my shoulders never seemed to ease. When I finally decided to let go (it took years!), the lightness I felt was rewarding. We all carry some sort of emotional baggage. All we need to do is take a moment to unpack it. There will be days when the baggage feels heavy and the emotions peak, but when the weight begins to lessen, your shoulders will thank you.
While that is my story, the reason I related to this book was because the stories in it reflected what I had been through at some point in my life.
The Happiness Story by Saavi Sharma – A Book Review
Here’s a question for you. Do you find comfort in being a victim of the past, or do you want to roll up your sleeves and tackle things that can make your life better? If you chose the former, ditch the idea of reading this book. And if you choose the latter, pick up this book!
The Happiness Story by Saavi Sharma is a book that is not just an easy read, but with examples that you and I can relate to. From chapters that talk about self-awareness, self-love, practicing gratitude, being empathetic, and more, there is something for everyone that we can take away to make our lives better.
The Happiness Story is all about how we can focus on finding happiness in our lives that is long-lasting rather than focus on fleeting bursts of happiness that come and go.
Don’t plan for the year if you find it hard to stick to a routine; start with a week, take small steps to make your life better, and you will realize that the path to forgiveness and love yourself is a constant journey.
One part of the book that talks about the journey inward and choosing to discover oneself called out to me and it came at a point when I needed the affirmation that I was on the right path. I started working with an NGO about a year ago, and it was a journey of learning, unlearning, not being judgemental, and being compassionate.
Takeaways
Here are my most important takeaways from the book.
Self-Awareness
Reflect on your emotions and thoughts regularly. Understand what brings you joy and identify areas for personal growth. Mindfulness practices, like meditation, can enhance self-awareness.
Self-Love
Embrace your strengths and acknowledge accomplishments. Practice positive affirmations and treat yourself with the same kindness you would offer a friend. Celebrate your uniqueness.
Gratitude
Establish a daily gratitude ritual, jotting down three things you’re thankful for. Focusing on the positive aspects of life can shift your mindset and cultivate a sense of contentment.
Forgiveness
Release resentment and grudges for your own peace. Understand that forgiveness is a gift to yourself. Practice empathy, recognizing that everyone makes mistakes, including you.
Self-Care
Prioritize self-care activities, whether it’s a warm bath, a good book, or a nature walk. Set boundaries to ensure personal time and recharge your mental and emotional well-being.
Taking a Break
Schedule regular breaks to avoid burnout. Whether it’s a short walk, a power nap, or moments of deep breathing, stepping away can refresh your mind and improve overall happiness.
If I had to summarize this book, I would say that in the process of letting go, you will lose many things from the past, but you will find yourself. And that is the most important thing that will ever matter in your life.
“This review is powered by Blogchatter Book Review Program”
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