Subtle psychological signs of unhappiness

It's difficult to tell when a person is happy or not content with his or her life. Often we misunderstand laughter or a smile with happiness, whereas if we see a person alone, stressed or fighting, we assume they aren't happy. But that may not be the case. Sometimes people who are dealing with unhappiness may themselve be unaware of why they're bitter and miserable. It's actually very hard to pinpoint.

Many times, it is our own personality, our feelings, emotions and our very own psychological being that determines our happiness. The signs are very subtle and may not seem so obvious. However, there are many ways, subtle psychological signs to tell if you are in fact unhappy.

Surely our past plays an important role in our lives. It is what made our present possible. However, dwelling on a negative instance from your past, making it influence your present and letting it impact your future can make you very unhappy over time.

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A toxic childhood, a bitter relationship, an irreparable financial loss, are all a phase that may have affected your life grievously. But should you let these instances, events dictate your present? Absolutely no. While you cannot change what's lost or the things that have already happened, you sure have the choice to learn from the mistakes that you made and weave a future that's more beautiful and grand.

Life is full of regrets and resentments. But should you continue to fret about it and let it dominate your existence? No. Not really.

Holding a grudge, swearing to get back to the people who mistreated you, and looking for ways to make them pay back, is only going to consume you and your time. Over time, your resentments will only increase and engulf you so much so that your resentments will become your only identity. This will make you bitter and fill you up with so much hatred, that no one will be able to rescue you.

That said, rather than brooding over such thoughts, learn to let it go. Prioritize your life and make plans, aim to achieve your dreams. No matter how disheartening your past may be, think of the ways you can bring change in the world.

There is nothing you can do to prevent people from talking. It's a way of life and at some point you too may have been a part of this culture. However, whether you wish to restrict yourself, limit your movements or regulate your behaviour on the basis of what people will say about you, is your choice.

In a society, as much as it is important to stick to rules and regulations, it is also important to listen to your heart and do what you think is right. Constantly worrying about what impression you might leave on people in your neighbourhood, dwelling on the fear of facing ostracization, will only make you unhappy. Being a people pleaser may win you some brownie points, but does it really satisfy your individuality is what you should be asking yourself.

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Just like your past, there is nothing much you can do about the things that are not in your control. While you can amend your ways, resort to certain lifestyle changes, to bring about a change in your future, there are things that you cannot really do anything about. This is when you need to let it go. Thinking about what's going to happen, how things are going to unfold, will only make you more anxious and stressed out. You will fail to live your present and will miss out on the beautiful things that could actually bring happiness in your life.

Mistakes are meant to be made. There is nothing wrong in being flawed. Choices and decisions that you make can go any direction - good or bad. But doubting yourself, blaming yourself for being wrong about a particular decision, will only leave a dent on your mind and soul. Never assume the worst. It is important that you trust yourself and your decisions. Being a cynic may come in handy at times, but it will always leave you unhappy and bitter.