Step back, rediscover happiness

You have reached many of your goals, yet the desire for more lingers. But for whom? For what? Perhaps, there is a belief that happiness lies just beyond your next achievement or acquisition. This relentless chase can become an obsession with “I” and “me”. In reality, you may be missing out on genuine fulfilment that comes from restful sleep, meaningful relationships, and true contentment.

Take a moment to reflect. Those who genuinely smile, forgive, forget, and love — both themselves and others — often experience the deepest happiness. You may recall a time when you prioritised quality time over material gain, but somewhere along the way, the balance tipped, and the rat race took over. Initially money is a critical need, but once a reasonable sum is there, the returns start diminishing from a happiness perspective unless we have the wisdom to use it for the wellbeing of society.

My way or highway

It’s time to step back from the relentless pursuit of more. Slow down and let go — whether it’s unnecessary lifestyle gadgets, constant mobile connectivity, or daily indulgences such as alcohol and smoking. The ego tied to success can push a “my way or the highway” approach, damaging relationships despite your best intentions. When was the last time you spent an evening with your spouse with no expensive gifts needed. Recognise that you have the means to break free from this cycle — before it’s too late.

The happiest people are often those who give and receive care, creating meaningful connections. Simple acts such as exercise, time in nature, reading, writing, or enjoying music can enrich life’s tapestry. Strive to make happiness a conscious part of your daily life, giving it the depth it deserves. Professional achievements alone can leave a void that no wealth can fill. Embrace the past, shed unnecessary burdens, and take control of the present to shape a better tomorrow.

While you may have amassed wealth, power, and possessions — society’s symbols of success — relationships built solely around money and status often become hollow. Despite luxurious brands, a hefty bank balance, a beautiful home, and a sleek car, life can feel incomplete. At life’s end, branded possessions will not matter. You will long for the warmth of loved ones. Distance often grows within families, conversations dwindle, and unstructured time disappears. Even a family dog might offer more genuine companionship. Retiring rich but disconnected is no victory. It’s time to rebuild relationships with unconditional love, shedding masks and embracing self-acceptance. Happiness is within your reach. Start giving it out to others unconditionally and it will come back to you too.

Midlife distractions may surface — an affair, substance use, or loss of interest in simple pleasures. Health issues such as high blood pressure can follow. The mobile phone may become a stand-in for genuine connection, and nights pass with the aid of sleeping pills. Loneliness creeps in, but you are not alone. Many reach a point where their relationship with themselves feels hollow — obsessed with “me” yet disconnected from deeper meaning.

Wealth can’t shield you from health declines, weakening family ties, or fading friendships. For married couples, this period tests the strength of their bond. Often, homemakers’ sacrifices go unnoticed, and partners live in silos. Rekindle love and affection; return home to your best friend. Slow down and rediscover life’s simple joys. Start with a half-day weekly detox from work and mobile to be with yourself or your loved one’s only. Reflect on wisdom’s role in your journey. Success grounded in humility and restrained ego is essential. Wealth, if it becomes the sole focus, can erode your peace of mind. The pursuit of “more” creates illusions of happiness and fosters ego-driven decisions and shallow friendships. True fulfilment lies in meaningful contributions and sharing. Balance in mind, body, and soul is crucial. A professional life coach can guide you along this path.

Master, rather than be enslaved by, money, mind, and mobile devices. This balance demands conscious effort. Invest equally in yourself, your family, and your work. I realised that Alexa couldn’t exercise for me, so I took charge of nurturing my body, mind, and soul through nature. Building good habits requires daily practice and dedication. Make the most of your time; once lost, it cannot be regained. For me its my daily KRA to spread kindness and reduce loneliness in my own small ways which I do mostly in my morning walk or at airports.

Globally, this struggle is reflected in society. Bhutan prioritises Gross National Happiness over GDP, while Japan’s high suicide rates and Singapore’s low happiness rankings highlight that prosperity alone isn’t enough. Nordic countries lead in happiness, emphasising the need for balance between work and rest.

What lessons can we take? Cultivate good habits. For me, “caring and sharing” brings joy to my life and hopefully to others. For some, joy may come from a party; for others, it’s morning tea with loved ones or time in nature. “Caring and sharing” often bring more joy than any material wealth. Act without expectations, creating joyful memories. Taking a break from phones and social media to cherish these moments is invaluable. Small, sustained steps can transform your life. No wealth can buy a companion to share your burdens. Building positive habits offers hope and meaning in life’s journey. Your legacy begins with these moments.

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