What Is The Happiness Slump + How To Overcome It

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ife, as we’ve come to realize, is a journey with many turns and twists. Occasionally, we find ourselves in a state of mind known as a “happiness slump” — when feelings of general well-being and contentment decline. It often leads to a decrease in motivation, enjoyment, or an overall sense of contentment. As a result, the things that used to bring a smile to your face suddenly feel a bit lackluster.

In a time of meticulously managed social media feeds and seemingly ideal lives, the pursuit of happiness has been affected. Picture this: you’re leisurely swiping through Instagram and suddenly, there it is—someone with the picturesque vacation, the dream job announcement, or the seemingly perfect relationship you’ve been hoping for. At this moment, you feel a tightening in your stomach, not because you’re unhappy for others, but because your journey now seems a tad less glamorous. From here, everything heads downhill, even the drive to pursue your dreams can’t be found. This is what Oprah Winfrey accurately refers to as the happiness slump.

Indeed, the pressure cooker of comparison affects us all, both young and old. The standards set by society and social media often feel lofty and reaching them seems like an impossibility. Hence, the result is that contentment becomes a fleeting memory. This isn’t about lacking certain things after hitting an age milestone, it’s the constant barrage of expectations and comparisons in our daily lives that can make happiness feel elusive.

The truth is that life isn’t always as glamorous as social media portrays. Yet, these platforms can subtly become the architects of the happiness slump we’ve come to experience. The knot in your stomach triggered by someone else’s highlight reel can overshadow the value of your behind-the-scenes moments. Yes, the “young and successful” narrative often overshadows the beauty of the learning curve — the unbeaten, messy, and imperfect path to figuring things out.

Check out how to overcome the happiness slump…

Here are effective tips for getting over the happiness slump:

• Take a social media detox: The constant stream of carefully curated lives on social media can sometimes contribute to our happiness slump. Taking a break from this digital world can be refreshing. It doesn’t have to be a complete shutdown, but reducing the time spent scrolling allows you to concentrate on your experiences rather than comparing them to others.
• Keep a gratitude Journal: A gratitude journal is like a daily dose of positivity. Take a few moments each day to jot down things you’re thankful for. It shifts your perspective from what’s lacking to what’s present. It could be as simple as appreciating a good cup of coffee, a friendly chat, or a sunny day. This practice gradually trains your mind to notice the brighter aspects of life.
• Connect with loved ones: Human connections are powerful mood boosters and an ardent enemy of the happiness slump. Reach out to friends or family members, share a laugh, or chat about your day. Social support is an important element in overcoming a happiness slump, and it reminds you that you’re not alone in your journey.
• Celebrate small wins: Celebrating small victories might seem trivial, but it’s a game-changer. It’s about recognizing your efforts, sustaining a positive mindset, and building momentum for more significant achievements.
• Practice mindfulness: Mindfulness brings you into the present moment. Whether it’s deep breathing, short walks, or simply savoring the flavors of your favorite meal, these practices ground you. They also help break the cycle of overthinking and redirect your focus to the richness of your current experience.
• Set realistic goals: Setting goals is about breaking down larger aspirations into manageable steps. This isn’t about rushing but about progressing steadily. Each small achievement becomes a building block, boosting your confidence and providing a sense of accomplishment.
• Limit comparison: The comparison trap is a happiness thief. Instead of fixating on others’ achievements, focus on your progress. Embrace the idea that success and fulfillment are personal and don’t always align with external benchmarks. Remember, everyone’s journey is unique.
• Seek support: Sharing your feelings with someone you trust, perhaps with a friend, family member, or professional, can be incredibly liberating. Expressing what you’re going through creates an avenue for support, advice, and sometimes, that listening ear you need badly.
• Indulge in hobbies and passions: Reconnecting with activities you genuinely enjoy reignites your sense of joy. Hobbies and passions provide a break from routine and offer moments of pure engagement. Hobbies like reading, playing an instrument, or pursuing a sport can improve your overall well-being.
• Have self-compassion: The happiness slump often makes you self-critical. Ignore it and stay kind to yourself, acknowledging that nobody has it all figured out. Just like you’d offer support to a friend facing challenges, extend that compassion to yourself. Realize that it’s okay not to be perfect and that growth comes from embracing imperfections.

Featured image: Prostock-Studio/iStock

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