I was recently invited to a podcast to talk about “my journey from Point A to Point B” by Lucia Csoma.
Amidst many journeys, the one that stands out the most to me is my journey to happiness, which has profoundly shaped my perspective and life.
I can confidently say that I am a happy person leading a fulfilling life. But how did I get here?
Know Your Priorities
First and foremost, it’s crucial to know your priorities. Understanding what truly matters to you and where you want to invest your time and energy is key. These priorities evolve over time, transitioning from education to career to family. It’s important to reassess them regularly and avoid getting stuck in past priorities.
My priorities are crystal clear: health comes first, as it is the foundation of everything else. Next is family, the unwavering support system that remains constant through life’s ups and downs. Finally, I want to make a meaningful difference in my career and, more importantly, in my work.
Know Your Values
Equally important as priorities are your values. They are deeply personal and play a significant role in whether you feel a sense of belonging. When my values aligned with those of my organization, I thrived and exceeded expectations. Conversely, when there was a misalignment, no amount of compensation could compensate for the internal conflict.
Follow Your Interests
There are different approaches to career planning. Some aim for a specific endpoint, aligning every decision to reach that goal. Others, like me, follow their passions, remaining open to new opportunities and changes in direction. While the former may lead to titles and compensation, I found it too restrictive. I chose the path of curiosity and interest, embracing opportunities even if they meant lateral moves or passing up promotions. For me, happiness always outweighed financial gain.
Be Curious and Flexible
Steve Jobs once said, “It only makes sense in hindsight.” This resonates deeply with me. My earliest mentor taught me to keep an open mind and be ready for opportunities as they arise, even when you’re not actively seeking them. Being curious and flexible allows you to adapt to changing circumstances, seizing unexpected opportunities along the way.
In closing, I leave you with a quote from Bruce Lee: “Be like water, my friend.” As water adapts to its surroundings, so should we be adaptable in our approach to life.
The path to happiness may not lead to the fanciest titles or the largest paychecks, but it will support a life filled with joy and purpose. This approach has worked for me, and I offer it to you for your consideration.