Happiness is a bit of a slippery fish, isn’t it? One moment we think we’ve got a hold of it and the next, it’s slipped right through our fingers.

But here’s the thing – true, genuine happiness isn’t an elusive creature lurking in the depths. It’s more of a journey, a process that unfolds over time.

You might not even realize you’re on the path to finding it. But, there are certain telltale signs that you’re getting closer.

In this article, I’m going to share 10 indicators that indicate you’re moving towards a happier life. They might be small and subtle, but they’re incredibly significant.

So stick with me, it’s time for a little happiness hunting.

1) You’re learning to live in the moment

In this fast-paced world, it’s easy to get caught up in the hustle and bustle of life, constantly chasing the next big thing and forgetting to appreciate the present.

However, when you start to slow down, to savor the present moment, you begin to experience a deeper sense of happiness. This is because happiness is not always about the extraordinary. Sometimes, it’s found in the ordinary moments that we often overlook.

Living in the moment means feeling the sun on your skin, listening to a loved one’s laughter, tasting the food you’re eating, feeling your heart beat. It’s about being fully present and engaged in whatever you’re doing at this very moment.

This may seem like a small change, but it’s a huge step towards genuine happiness. Happiness is not out there somewhere in the future; it’s unfolding right here, right now.

2) You’re embracing your imperfections

This one hit home for me. I used to be a perfectionist, always striving for the best and never satisfied with anything less. It was draining, and to be honest, it wasn’t making me happy.

One day, I caught myself in the mirror and realized that my pursuit of perfection was robbing me of joy. It was then I decided to let go, to accept that I am human and humans are inherently flawed.

And you know what? It was liberating.

If you’re anything like me and you’ve started to accept your imperfections, then this is a significant sign of finding genuine happiness. When we stop chasing the illusion of perfection and start embracing our flaws, we open ourselves up to a new level of contentment.

It’s not about giving up on improvement, but rather acknowledging that it’s okay not to be perfect. This kind of self-acceptance is a big step towards genuine happiness.

3) You’re comfortable with saying “no”

Saying “no” can be incredibly difficult. We often fear the disappointment or disapproval of others. But there’s power and freedom in being able to decline requests that don’t align with our needs or values.

When you become more comfortable with saying “no”, it’s a sign that you’re finding genuine happiness. It means you’re setting boundaries and prioritizing your own well-being.

This isn’t about being selfish or unkind. It’s about understanding that you can’t pour from an empty cup. You need to take care of your own needs before you can effectively take care of others’.

4) You’re pursuing your passions

Have you ever been so engrossed in doing something you love that time just seems to fly by? That’s what is called ‘flow’. It’s the state of being completely immersed in an activity for its own sake.

Maybe it’s painting, running, cooking, or even playing video games. Whatever it is, pursuing your passions can lead to profound satisfaction and joy.

You see, happiness isn’t just feeling good all the time; it involves engagement and meaning too. It’s living a genuinely fulfilling life.

5) You’re letting go of comparisons

We live in a world that’s constantly encouraging us to compare ourselves with others. Social media, for instance, can sometimes feel like a highlight reel of everyone else’s perfect lives.

But here’s the thing – comparison is the thief of joy. It steals away our contentment and leaves us feeling inadequate and envious.

Choosing to focus on your own journey, celebrating your own progress, and accepting yourself as you are – these are all monumental steps towards finding true happiness.

6) You’re building meaningful relationships

It’s no secret that relationships play a significant role in our happiness. But what’s important to note is that it’s not about the quantity of relationships, but the quality.

Building deep, meaningful connections with people – be it family, friends, or even coworkers – can greatly contribute to our sense of happiness. These relationships provide support, love, and a sense of belonging that we all crave as human beings.

Life’s joys are amplified when we have loved ones to share them with. If you’ve been nurturing your relationships, spending quality time with family and friends, and truly valuing those connections, then you’re moving towards genuine happiness.

Because at the end of the day, it’s not the material possessions or career milestones that bring us the most joy, but the meaningful bonds we form with others.

7) You’re learning to let go of control

I was always someone who needed to have control over every aspect of my life. From the minute details of my daily routine to the grand plan of my career, I felt I needed to be in charge.

But life, as it turns out, has a funny way of not always sticking to the script. And trying to control everything often led me to feel overwhelmed and frustrated.

When I started practicing letting go, embracing uncertainties, and accepting that I can’t control everything, it was like a weight lifted off my shoulders.

Remember, it’s not abandoning all plans or goals. Instead, it’s understanding that sometimes, things won’t go as planned — and that’s okay. This acceptance allows us to adapt, grow and find happiness in unexpected places.

8) You’re finding joy in the small things

Genuine happiness often lurks in the most ordinary moments.

Maybe it’s the first sip of coffee in the morning, a heartwarming smile from a stranger, or simply the feel of fresh sheets against your skin. If you’re starting to find joy in these seemingly insignificant moments, then you’re truly on the path to happiness.

This is because happiness isn’t something that just happens to us. It’s something we cultivate by paying attention to the moments of pleasure, warmth, and connection that pepper our daily lives.

Moreover, happiness doesn’t always come in big, earth-shattering moments. More often than not, it’s woven into the fabric of our everyday lives, waiting to be noticed and appreciated.

9) You’re becoming your own best friend

The journey to happiness is, in essence, a journey towards self-love. It’s about learning to treat yourself with the same kindness, patience, and understanding you would offer a dear friend.

If you’re starting to appreciate your own company, to value your own thoughts and feelings, and to treat yourself with kindness and respect, then you’ve hit the jackpot of signs.

This shift towards self-love and acceptance is perhaps the most significant indicator that you’re finding genuine happiness. Because at the core of true happiness is the realization that you are enough, just as you are.

10) You’re embracing the journey

Let’s get real for a moment: life isn’t always rainbows and sunshine. It’s messy, complicated, and challenging. But it’s also beautiful, unique, and full of surprises.

Embracing life in all its ups and downs is a clear sign that you’re finding genuine happiness. Because happiness isn’t about a perfect life but about appreciating the one we have.

When you start to see happiness as a journey, not an end goal, it means you’re learning to find joy in the process, not just the outcome.

This shift in perspective can be life-changing. It allows you to see each day as an opportunity for growth and happiness, rather than just another step towards some distant goal.

Final reflection: happiness is inside you

At the outset of the journey to genuine happiness, it becomes apparent that the path is deeply personal and unique to each individual. What makes one person happy might not have the same effect on another. But despite these differences, one universal truth remains: happiness comes from within.

Our happiness is largely determined by our thoughts, attitudes, and perceptions. It’s less about external circumstances and more about how we choose to react to them.

As the renowned Dalai Lama once said, “Happiness is not something ready-made. It comes from your own actions.”

So if you’re noticing these signs in your life, it’s an indication that you’re on the path towards genuine happiness. And remember, these signs are not a checklist or a roadmap. They’re simply indicators, little nudges guiding you towards your own happiness. What matters most is that you’re moving forward at your own pace, finding joy in your own way.

In the end, finding happiness is about embracing who you are, seeking growth over perfection, and cherishing the little moments of joy that life offers us each day.

It’s your journey. And every step you take towards finding your happiness is a step worth celebrating.