Summary

An introvert discovers through a writing prompt that personal happiness is deeply connected to meaningful interactions with others, especially family and community, rather than solitary experiences in nature as initially assumed.

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Abstract

The author, reflecting on a writing promptingraham prompt about happiness, finds that despite being an introvert, their happiness is primarily derived from the joy and love shared within their family, particularly the bond between their children. Acts of kindness, such as volunteering with The Shortform on Medium and participating in community-building activities, also contribute significantly to their sense of well-being. This revelation challenges the author's preconceived notion that nature and solitude would rank higher in their personal happiness index. The article emphasizes the importance of community, the fulfillment that comes from helping others, and the unexpected realization that connections with people are central to the author's happiness, even as an introvert.

Opinions

The author believes happiness is not just an absence of pain but a consistent ability to find joy in life.
They equate happiness with the innate feeling of warmth, peace, and presence, often experienced through family interactions.
The author values the innocence and curiosity of children, finding happiness in their perspectives and dynamics.
Helping others and volunteering are seen as uplifting activities that bring happiness both to oneself and to those receiving help.
The author expresses a strong aversion to negativity, selfishness, ego, and arrogance, viewing these traits as detrimental to happiness.
Community and community-building efforts are considered joyful and enriching experiences that enhance happiness.
The author suggests that as an introvert, the realization that people and connections are central to happiness was unexpected and thought-provoking.
The article implies that happiness can be inspired by the simplest of human interactions and gestures, such as a child's performance for charity.

A Shocking Revelation for an Introvert

Responding to a writing prompt, I discovered something new about myself.

Mount Revelstoke National Park — before I gave pause to the question “what brings you happiness and what takes it away?” I thought nature would be higher on the list. Instead, I learned something new about myself… (Photo by Author)

What is happiness?

The word “happiness” has different meanings for different people.

Some people think that happiness is the absence of pain and suffering while others believe it’s being satisfied with what you have in life. In order to be happy you need to be able to find joy in your life on a regular basis.

What is happiness to you?

To me, it’s this innate feeling of warmth and peace. It’s where I can rest so easily, breathe deeply and be wholly present.

It’s that simple.

So, what brings me happiness?

Of course, my children are first on this list.

It’s the most basic things that they do: their thoughtfulness for others — greeting me as soon as I arrive home from work, calling their grandparents to say “hello” or share a “joke of the day” that bring me peace, joy — and happiness.

Their innocence and perspective as they engage with the world around them by asking questions (always) is something I marvel at. It’s truly satisfying to be invited in to see the world from their vantage point and these curious minds.

I got you — the sibling dynamic is something really special. (Author’s photo)

Seeing their sibling dynamic also brings me happiness.

Their love is powerful. Energizing. Unconditional.

If one is having a “down day”, without fail, the other will step in to support and lift their sibling up.

They truly are each other’s best friends and have a remarkable bond.

It is a an honour and privilege to witness this bond first hand each and every day.

Are there people in your life that energize you like this?

Happiness is not a destination. It’s a way of life.

In that regard, helping others brings me happiness, too. Making contributions in support and for the well-being of others is uplifting.

Giving of my time and skills is one way I can bring happiness not only to myself, but also others. What an incredible gift!

Photo by The Tampa Bay Estuary Program on Unsplash

I volunteer with The Shortform here on Medium and hope my small contribution in that corner of this space helps others in their writing journey.

I would be remiss not to mention the editing team — including Nancy Blackman, MASF (Editor-in-Chief), Vidya Sury, Collecting Smiles, Jonathan Townend, RMN, and the writer who inspired this piece, Judy Walker. Seeing their commitment to supporting others also brings me happiness.

We are a group of like-minded individuals from across the globe, each doing a little bit to make someone’s day a little brighter when they get that notification “accepted” or “Thanks for your submission! Publishing shortly…”

“We rise by lifting other’s up.” — Michelle Obama

Outside of Medium, my other volunteer roles include duties on an amateur sports board, environmental stewardship, and supporting holiday giving campaigns.

My kids and I feel the love and warmth at Christmas collecting donations for our local food bank.

Last year, my then nine-year-old raised $1600 in two hours singing and dancing his little heart out for charity outside the front of a grocery store!

That day is evidence of how giving of your time and a little energy can bring so much happiness to ourselves — and strangers passing by.

If this photo makes you smile, you can see why people were so generous to support this child’s efforts for the food bank — four years after this photo was taken, he casts the same level of exuberance (Author’s photo)

This brings me to the next “item” on my list — community and community-building.

Community warms my heart, fills my bucket, and brings me happiness.

Witnessing and sharing in new connections, seeing strangers come together for a common goal, and networks rallying in support of one another is an absolute joy.

We all need community.

Whereas, what takes away happiness?

Selfishness.

Negativity.

Ego.

Arrogance.

I am one to always find the positive in every circumstance, or seek how learning and growth opportunities, so when people dwell on the negative — I’ll step away.

That kind of attitude depletes me.

Sucks me dry.

Life’s too short.

And, I try my best to not give any time to such energy.

It’s like a dark cloud hanging on, blocking the light and limiting productivity.

Reflection

Taking time to pause to write down the first things that come to mind as I respond to Judy’s prompt, “What brings you happiness and what takes it away?” no “items” populate my list — only people.

As an introvert this is shocking.

While nature and stillness help me recharge, grant me peace, and are absolutely critical for my well-being, it’s good, kind, people and my connection with others that provide greater influence for me when it comes to my happiness.

How about you?

What inspires and negates your happiness?

Thank you to Judy Walker for prompting “What brings you happiness and what takes it away?”

Reading her lists will have you nodding, smiling and chuckling! Do so here:

The World Will Break Our Hearts if We Let It. It’s Time to Reclaim Happiness as Our Birthright

Are you the master of your inner domain, or are you letting yourself be controlled?

medium.com

And, sometimes happiness is food — especially when it smiles back at you as Vidya Sury, Collecting Smiles highlights:

Happiness Is . . .

November Six Word Photo Story Challenge: “Collecting Smiles”

medium.com

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