Inward Approval

“Success isn't about how your life looks to others. It's about how it feels to you.” Michelle Obama

I often fall into the trap of trying to look good for others.

I fall into this trap and I know that many other people fall into it as well.

As social animals, we are wired to want to impress people.

We want to impress potential mates so that we can reproduce.

We want to impress our peers so that we may "rise in the ranks".

We want to impress our parents so that we can seek out their approval.

SO on and so forth.. There are a million reasons why we want to look good and impress others!

Something that is important for long-term happiness and well-being is something that runs counterintuitive to this "impress others" approach to life.

Instead of seeking the approval of others, we should turn inwards and seek the approval of ourselves.

If we want to live a better life, then don't do the things that will make others look at you and think that you are living a better life.

Do the things that you know will make you happier and therefore, give you a better life.

The things that you enjoy doing and share a passion for.

These are what you ought to focus your energy and attention on.

Not materialism and outward approval, but happiness and inward approval!