About the nature of happiness, Swami Prabhananda wrote in his book In Search of Spiritual Values:
“It is difficult to define happiness, much less quantify it. Again, the cause of happiness varies from person to person. Even with the same person a certain cause may not make him equally happy all the time. No doubt, it is the mental state that is the opposite of depressing sorrow, etc. It has also been observed that climate, health, money and so forth are not critical to being happy. But in normal situations, sustained happiness is possible only for a person who does not let grief or agony overwhelm him. Still, this kind of happiness is not the highest.”

Ingredients of Happiness

Experts say our attitude to life is the key to happiness. This has been highlighted by sages and scholars. What are these attitudes? According to leadership guru John C Maxwell, “Attitude is the first quality that

makes the successful man. If he has a positive attitude and is a positive thinker, who likes challenges in different situations, then he has half his success achieved.” American businessman and philanthropist W. Clement Stone had observed: “There is a little difference in people, but that little difference makes a big difference. The little difference is whether it is positive or negative.” Positive thinking is the bedrock of a happy life.
Worry is a silent killer. It has been said: “Worry is so disruptive to the mind’s balance and ultimately, the health of the body. When you have no control over a situation, worrying won’t change it. All worry does is promote anxiety and stress. The answer lies in acceptance and letting go of your pseudo control.” (Sarah M. Collins: The Little Guide to Big Challenges)
Peace of mind is important. It is said: “Before you make your thoughts powerful, first make the

Bhavan's Journal,May 15, 2022∎ 38