Finding Happy

Happiness (not many are a fan of the word), but it does feel like the ultimate goal, the universal pursuit of us all. Whether conscious of it or not, we all chase this elusive emotion differently. But let's talk about a group of people who hacked the happiness code early on: Creatives.

As creatives, we are fortunate to have discovered our passion early in life. The joy we find in creating, designing, and innovating is unparalleled. Our art, our craft, has become a career that sustains us and nourishes our souls. It's akin to winning the happiness lottery. When a painter sees their vision come to life on canvas or a writer finds the perfect words to tell a story, it’s a profound satisfaction that transcends mere professional achievement. We don't just work for a pay check; we work because our craft brings a sense of purpose and fulfilment. The process itself, the brainstorming sessions, the bright-idea moments, the late nights spent perfecting the work, are inherently rewarding and provide us with a deep sense of satisfaction that many other professions might struggle to offer.

Despite being blessed with this fulfilling career, we are not immune to feeling jaded. The daily grind, client demands, and relentless pursuit of perfection can sometimes sap the joy out of the creative endeavors. Even the most passionate artist can hit a creative block, and the most enthusiastic designer can feel the sting of burnout. Our constant need to innovate and stay ahead of trends can turn the joy of creation into a stressful race against time. Moreover, the commercial aspects of creativity, such as dealing with 'interesting' clients, tight deadlines, and financial pressures, can erode the pure joy of creating. During these times, we need to redefine happiness and seek out new sources of joy. Taking breaks, seeking inspiration from new experiences, and reconnecting with the initial spark that led us to this craft.

Redefining happiness isn't about abandoning what we love but evolving with it. For us as creatives, this might mean exploring new mediums, collaborating with different minds, or simply taking a step back to breathe. Sometimes, stepping out of one's comfort zone and trying something entirely different can be incredibly refreshing. `New experiences can provide fresh perspectives and invigorate our primary creative pursuits. Also, collaboration with other creatives can open new avenues of inspiration and joy. As someone (I wish I knew) once wisely said, a change is as good as a rest. We can keep our passion alive and maintain happiness by continually evolving and seeking new challenges.

Happiness often lies in serving others. The act of helping someone else can bring a profound sense of fulfilment. Research shows that people who volunteer or help others experience greater levels of happiness. When creatives use their gifts to benefit others, they not only bring joy to those they help but also find a renewed sense of purpose and satisfaction in their work. For instance, as a designer using your skill to support a non-profit's campaign, you can find great joy in seeing their work make a positive impact. An illustrator creating art for a community project can feel deeply connected to the people being served. By focusing on how your creativity can serve others, you often find renewed purpose and a new kind of happiness.

"The best way to find yourself is to lose yourself in the service of others." – Mahatma Gandhi

Finding happiness is truly a journey, not a destination. The path often seems more apparent for creatives, but still fraught with unique challenges. By embracing new definitions of happiness and focusing on the joy of helping others, we can continue to thrive in our passions and live fulfilling lives. Remember, happiness isn't just about the grand achievements or the accolades. It's about the little moments, the acts of kindness, and the joy of creation.

So, keep creating, keep helping, and finding new ways to be happy.