IF you're like most people, you're likely to have had a memorable childhood. Children are typically curious and innocent. They view the world in a positive way. They have so many things to do in any given time. Most importantly, they don't take "no" for an answer.
Is it a coincidence that children are also the happiest creatures? Are there lessons that adults can learn from them?
I think there are a lot of direct correlations between innocence and happiness. Some people may think that being innocent is a sign of weakness, or that the person isn't smart enough to manoeuvre the often complex and treacherous paths of life.
This is a risky path to take. One wrong turn will lead to another. Before we know it, we're deep in trouble.
For example, a person who lied once may need to create bigger lies to cover the earlier one.
A person who breaks a rule may have to break more rules in order not to get caught. Does that sound like a happy path to take?
Let's look at our children. Oftentimes, they mean what they say. If we're fair to them, chances are they'd readily admit their mistakes without coming up with a thousand excuses.
They take immense pleasure in everything that life has to offer. Their views on the world are candid, open and transparent. They say what they mean and mean what they say. They're happy.
Wouldn't it be great if we can recreate such childhood moments? Well, the good news is, we can!
I don't mean we literally become children again, but we can awaken our inner child.
OUR INNER CHILD
Adults who can reconnect with their inner child will experience that wonderful feeling of genuine happiness again. They'll be able to simplify their lives as much as possible. They don't badmouth others, nor are they consumed by greed and envy.
When presented with a situation, their views are always positive, proactive and without prejudice. They truly believe that everyone is innocent until proven otherwise.
More importantly, their relationships with their loved ones will drastically improve. It's because they become fairer in their judgement and more understanding of situations.
They value their family as they are and not what they'd become tomorrow. Wouldn't it be wonderful if all parents could become like this?
As a bonus, those people whose inner child are awoken also enjoy more peace of mind. For example, they're happy because they know how to enjoy what they already have. They've stopped worrying about things that haven't happened.
They see what's in front of them, not what's in other people's lives. They don't feel pressured to upgrade to the latest gadgets, handphones or car model. They do only when there's a real need and not because they're out to impress others.
When we don't carry any negative baggage, our journey can be an extremely happy one. Our children have proven it. Now it's time we awaken our inner child and unleash unlimited happiness for years to come.
Zaid Mohamad coaches and trains parents to experience happier homes and more productive workplaces. Reach him at zaidi@smartparents.com.my.