By Nur Ilyana Azman
Writing from a students perspective, it is no doubt an underlying challenge for university students to maintain a healthy and peaceful state of mind, given the circumstances we face each day to keep us going and survive this unmistakable journey for knowledge.
Most of us struggle day in and day out to at least make our footprints be noticeable in this sea of academic travellers. On top of that, carrying ourselves to live in the real world has not always been a walk in the park.
It may all sound metaphorical but we cannot deny that it is true. With that being said, some of us are taught that in order to be happy and successful, we must measure our accomplishments.
Some of us might think that œIll be happy when I achieve a 4.0 CGPA or œIll be more satisfied if I can become the President of a club in order for my resume to look good.
The fact is, these kind of mindsets or perceptions are what bring us down and feel as if there is an unbearable weight carried on our shoulders. So, here is an underrated principle we can practise that can help us achieve a happy body, mind and soul at this very moment, regardless of the circumstances.
Contentment is when we feel utmost satisfied with what and where we are at any point in life. It is an emotional state of satisfaction that tones down the noise in our heads saying that œI need to be like him or œI need to have what she has.
Too often, we get so absorbed in wanting to grasp what lies in the future as well as be held captive by what befell in the past as if we can rewrite our histories. By doing so, we fail to appreciate what we have in the present or the very least, live in the moment.
Having a friend that we can have lunch together is a blessing. Sending in an assignment on time is an achievement. Having the weekend to enjoy because we finished all our work beforehand is a fulfilment. These little things in life that we take for granted ought to be acknowledged for us to feel satisfied everyday and help us to become better each day.
Happiness is not meant to be postponed. Hence, it is our choice to manifest our own happiness through the power of contentment.
One of the tips is to be aware of our current situation. Celebrate our small steps and achievements. Also, bear in mind that failures do not determine our fates and we can still see the bright side of it and trust me, it is brighter on the other side!
Plus, giving up will not be an option. Do not dwell on our sadness, instead, practise gratitude day by day. Try to remember a moment or even a person that gave you a reason to smile. Improve our state of mind by reflecting on what we have, instead of what we do not.
Lastly, keep in mind that everyones journey is different. Thus, do not compare ourselves with others. Comparing our lives to others will always bear the ugly fangs of discontentment.
Whether we realise it or not, we would habitually compare the worst of ourselves to the best of others that we know of. In reality, nobody is perfect and nobody has it easy. We need to realise how special and unique ourselves are and give us a pat on the shoulders whenever the time calls for it.
In a nutshell, contentment is basically appreciation, gratitude and acceptance of the way things are right now.
Of course, there are many other ways to captivate contentment in life as it is not a one-size-fits-all programme. We just need to find what works best for us by taking this first step towards achieving happiness in life.
Therefore, live! Lets liberate ourselves from this breakable chain of discontent that we so often shackle ourselves with. A sound mind and a content heart will indeed inspire us to achieve greater things in life. ***