Happiness Comes First

Happiness is an important part of life, but often times, we seem to forget about it entirely. We get so caught up in work, school, and relationships that we sometimes forget about our own wellbeing. Many people tend to complain about these aspects of their lives, rather than appreciating the good experiences they have. But if those things are really worth complaining about, then why waste your time complaining instead of actually going out and trying to make them better? Sure, things like jobs and friends are needed in our lives, but they should never cost us our happiness or make us feel miserable more often than not.

It surprises me how often I hear people complaining about having to go to class or having to do schoolwork. In fact, it seems to be one of the most common complaints for people my age. In high school, I could somewhat understand it since we didn’t really have a choice, but now, in college, these are classes that are based around a major we chose. A major that will help us get our desired job in the future. These classes are helping us learn about what we’ll be doing for the rest of our lives. For me, class is an exciting part of my week because I get to learn how to be a better writer. So if someone is not truly passionate about what they’re studying, then is it really the right path for them? Because if you are complaining about classes now, I can only imagine that you will also be complaining when you have a real job in this industry later on in life. So why not make the most of your college experience now? Because right now is the time to learn about what you love so you can hopefully do it for the rest of your life. I don’t think that should be something to complain about at all.

The same thing goes for jobs. Obviously, a job is essential in life in order to earn money, but many people have this idea in their head that every job is boring or exhausting. I understand that a lot of jobs can be, especially those that most young adults choose to earn some extra cash, but you don’t have to just settle for the first job you find. My first job was at a Lasertag place and it was the most amazing experience I ever had. I got to work with kids, bond with other employees, and get paid to do something I loved. However, when I moved for college, I started working at a restaurant to earn some extra cash, but I did not feel appreciated there and I know a lot of my fellow employees felt the same way. But that’s when I remembered how much fun it had been to work at my old job and I realized that if I looked hard enough, I could easily find another job that I loved. I didn’t need to just settle for some restaurant if I was unhappy there. I wish that more people would come to that conclusion too. I know it can be hard sometimes, but I don’t think it’s ever worth it to just give up and settle for a job you can’t stand. Throughout our lives, we spend so much time working, so why spend it doing something you will regret in the future? Earning money is definitely important, but people should not let it cause them to forget about trying to keep themselves happy as well.

Whether we realize it or not, the people around us can also impact our happiness just as greatly as school or work can. Sometimes the people we are friends with hurt us, but we still hang out with them because we feel obligated to. It is important to have many different relationships in life, but these people should be in our lives to support us, not bring us down. True friends should be able to trust each other and be there for each other when they need it. I know it doesn’t always work out that way. I have had many friends come and go, and while it can be hard to let go of people, it can sometimes be for the best. Don’t waste your time with people who don’t appreciate you. There are probably nicer people out there who will fully support you and do what’s best for you. Don’t ever feel like you have to be friends with someone or that you have to hang around certain people. Instead, find the people in your life that will be able to stick by your side and help you be happy for as long as possible.

It can be such a waste to spend your life with people who don’t appreciate you, a job you can’t stand, and an education you don’t love. Happiness should be a priority. Don’t take it for granted or you will only end up regretting it one day. No matter how hard it gets, it is important to keep trying and keep your head held high. As my favorite band once said: look to the future now, it’s only just begun.