Some people are more satisfied than others. Seemingly regardless of how well things are going for them, if they are under stress, and how they are feeling.
Looking at someone who is satisfied with their lives can be looked at as them not being ambitious. Or even a form of naivety.
But I think there is something special about feeling satisfied. Being grateful for what we have, and not having a negative outlook on life.
Being satisfied and happy is closely linked. Now think about how you feel when you’re around someone happy. It’s great isn’t it?
But why are some people more satisfied than others? Why are some people never satisfied, regardless how well things are going for them?
I have spoken with dozens of people, and asked them these exact questions. Here are some of the answered summarized.
10 Things Satisfied People Do That You Probably Don’t
They Let Go of Bad Memories
Happy, satisfied people are living in the now. They are not dwelling on bad things that happened in the past.
Doing so just puts a downer on everything. It’s not always easy letting go of bad memories, but it can be done – and is often for the best.
They Communicate with Themselves
This may sound a little strange. But don’t knock it until you’ve tried it, because it works. Do you talk to yourself and motivate yourself? Maybe you should.
A lot of people I spoke with say they motivate themselves and give little pep talks. Much like a performer will before performing, so they give their best.
They Are Good at Genuinely Forgiving Others
Forgiving others is one of the most sure fire ways of finding contentment, and satisfaction. No one is suggesting you become a walkover, but it’s something to think about.
Is there anything you’re wound up about at the moment? If someone is to blame, would forgiving them release the weight off your shoulders? Think about it.
They Are Not Hung up on Perfection
Chasing perfection is a fool’s gold and will only lead to disappointment. It’s just not possible, and will be an endless chase.
People who are satisfied with their lives, through good and bad are not hung up on chasing perfection. There is nothing wrong with wanting to do better, but be realistic.
They Shy Away from Negative People
People enjoying their own happiness do not allow themselves to be brought down by others. Otherwise they wouldn’t be so happy.
I think it’s more often subconscious than it is a conscious effort. But they tend to shy away from negative people so they don’t have their flow disturbed.
They Have a Handle on Their Anxiety
I have never met anyone who is immune to being anxious. But I have met a lot of people who have such a handle on it that it doesn’t bother them.
If you get your anxiety under control, and take a positive view on things. You’ll be a lot happier.
They Know Themselves Well
Happy people are happy because they know themselves well. They know what they want, how to get it and how to manage expectations.
When you are in this position, you’re able to say no when necessary. Managing what’s best for you.
They Are Passionate About Their Work
We spend the majority of our time at work. Well, at least most of us do. If you don’t enjoy what you do that’s a huge negative impact on your life.
Take that a step further. If you’re passionate about your work, there is a very good chance that you are happy. If you’re not passionate about your work, maybe it’s time to address that.
They Embrace Happiness
Happiness can sometimes be seen as a guilty pleasure. If you’re surrounded by people who are less fortunate, or in troubled circumstances. It can sometimes feel wrong to be happy.
But there is nothing to be ashamed of. We are all keepers of our own destiny and luck. Happy people embrace their happiness, and know they have earned their fortunes.
They Work on Themselves
How often do you take out some time to meditate, visualize, or work on yourself? You cannot expect to find happiness if you never work on being happy.
Take up exercise, yoga, meditation, or just free up more time to have fun. Happiness doesn’t come knocking on peoples’ doors. You need to find it, then embrace it.
Phil lives in England, UK, and has around 20 years experience as a professional life, career and executive coach. He started this blog to help others find and define their own self development journey. Blogging about a wide range of topics to help facilitate a better future.
Hello Phil,
This is yet another thought provoking post and i agree with all your points.
These are really the major differences between satisfied/happy people and unsatisfied ones and most of us are also guilty of it.
Nothing really beats being happy and getting rid of everything that’s worrying you. Being worried will only give you headache and make you very uncomfortable.
Thanks for sharing Phil
Thanks Theodore
It’s always a good exercise to take a look at the characteristics of other personality types. If we can learn and use any ourselves, that’s self development 🙂