Image courtesy of Waka Jawaka/Flickr Creative Commons License

In modern society, we are constantly pushed to think bigger, better, faster, stronger. The To-Do list is endless but the results are the same – increasing dissatisfaction, greed and a need for more, more, more. The grass is always greener and instead of being content with what have, we are constantly pursuing happiness that appears out of reach.

How can we ever be happy in the present if we are always waiting for something better to come along? We hang our happiness on what we could have or what might happen, promptly forgetting to appreciate what we already have.

Buddhists believe that delusional thinking creates an unhealthy state of mind and the first step to eliminating delusion is acknowledgement. Be mindful of your thoughts and intentions. What are your true motives? If you are seeking happiness in the future rather than finding happiness in your present, there is a good chance you are delusional. Do you feel incomplete without the latest It bag or slinkiest mobile phone? Are you prone to inappropriate crushes only to discover that Prince Charming was an illusion – or a delusion?

Recognising and resisting delusional thoughts cultivates self-awareness and a more peaceful state of mind. Buddhism is like self-help with bells on; it calms the busy mind into understanding that the only way to be truly happy is to be happy right now. Forget the grass on the other side, sink your feet into the ground beneath your feet and stay rooted in the present.