"Happy" New Year?

Instead of a "Happy" New Year, why don't we aim for a Normal, Fulfilling, Respectful, Wiser, New Year, instead?

"Happiness" after all it's just a brief state of mind. We have moments of happiness. Perhaps we should indeed be wishing "I wish you more moments of happiness than of unhappiness". That may describe a "Happy" Year. Because unhappiness, sadness, anxiety, boredom, it is going to be part of our life. COVID has been really successful at teaching us that.

Through my work, I have come to realize that to "Be Happy" is often used interchangeably with "to be content", "fulfilled", "in line with our values". We often say use the word "Happy" so freely, yet it is such a difficult state to attain not to mention to actually have it last. It's like telling someone to climb Mount Everest, assuming ofcourse they are equipped. It's extremely hard to climb it, and you will be at the top for a few minutes, then comes descent.

2020 has been quite a bumpy ride, to say the least.

The question is:

- Have we learned anything from this slap in the face?

- Have we appreciated what we have taken for granted so long? (hugs? kisses? gatherings? freedom?)

- Have we shown resilience?

- Have we united together or have we drifted apart?

- Have we done enough to help those in need?

I know I have. Or at least, I have tried.

In light of 2021, I wish us all: a little more togetherness, a little more respect for one another, a little more self-care, a little more wisdom and patience, and a little more persistence when it comes to attaining our personal goals.

Being more expressive and affectionate to our loved-ones and in tune with our values (what's important and meaningful in our life) wouldn't hurt either!

Then, we can talk about happiness!

My best wishes for a prosperous, loving, and healthy 2021.

Orestis Kasinopoulos, Ph.D.

Registered Clinical Psychologist.