As a part of our culturally-created self, we set our accomplishments according to the expectations of others. By doing so, satisfaction with life is based on other people's approval, which sets us up for disappointment or failure because we can't make everyone happy.
Imagine if we chose our own measuring stick for happiness and success not based on other people's expectations. Imagine how much more meaningful our accomplishments would be if the driving force was purely internal. Our joy and pride would be bigger, stronger, effervescent, and longer lasting, because we wouldn't be obligated to give any of that energy away to our family, friends, boss, pastor, teacher, or anyone else expecting you to make them joyous or proud. It will be for you, and how great it feels to do something just for you.
So, whether it is making a quilt, making a coffee table, finishing a book, getting a Masters degree, losing weight, spending less time on social media, or simply getting out of bed to face the day, acknowledge every accomplishment that is meaningful to you, because each is fuel for a happy you.
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