The Secret to a Happy Life

Qing Dynasty literary figure Jiang Shiquan once composed a pair of couplets: “Limited wisdom leads to tranquility, limited pursuits nurture health.” In handling oneself and one’s affairs, it is beneficial to employ fewer strategies, harbor fewer worries, possess fewer desires, and entertain fewer thoughts. With such an approach, one can more easily maintain a tranquil and focused mind, thereby cultivating one’s character and conduct in everyday life. Ultimately, as the mind gradually becomes more serene, life becomes less burdened with troubles and confusion. Thus, as the mind becomes more tranquil, life becomes smoother, and overall quality of life improves.

Speak Less, Better

In everyday life, one will notice that those who are naturally reserved and prefer silence tend to face life’s challenges with a subdued attitude. Indeed, among a crowd, those who talk incessantly, embellishing their words, and seeking attention, often invite increasing aversion and disdain from others, and even face alienation and rejection.

In interpersonal interactions, a truly wise person is one who knows how to govern their speech, understanding when to speak and when to remain silent. Speaking softly, gently, slowly, and plainly, one neither becomes excessively enthusiastic nor cold and indifferent. Throughout, one can express their attitude and articulate their ideas. Even if one chooses not to speak at all, they can still exude a strong presence and charismatic charm. As one gains a deeper understanding of human nature, they become more serene and less inclined to nitpick or even bother with speaking.

As Yang Jiang once said: “I do not contend with anyone, and I am indifferent to those who contend with me.” By expressing less, judging less, and engaging in fewer disputes, one will ultimately find that by managing oneself, they are managing their own life.

Do Your Best at Work

In one’s lifetime, what holds greater significance: work or life? The answer varies for different individuals. In life’s fleeting moments, we must strive to excel in our work while also living well. In fact, the two are not contradictory.

Roughly half of one’s life is spent working. Faced with pressure from superiors, office politics, the toll of work, and the anxieties of career advancement and salary increases, if one does not manage work-related stress well, it can lead to numerous troubles in life. As the saying goes: “In youth, we trade health for money; in old age, we trade money for health.” Excessive pressure can also bring unhealthy elements to the mind and body, and when health issues arise, so do troubles. Therefore, one should exert effort at work while not subjecting oneself to excessive pressure.

When working, wholeheartedly devote oneself to the task at hand. After work, arrange and adjust one’s personal life. Live each moment attentively, wholeheartedly, and in harmony with both body and mind, not wasting any time. Manage work, family, and life in an organized manner. Give your best effort, with a clear conscience, and do not dwell on the outcome. By focusing on each present moment, there is no worry about the future, no regret about the past, and every moment is one of happiness.

Maintain Inner Tranquility

Those with a tranquil mindset will find their body in a balanced, stable state. As a result, no matter the circumstances encountered in life, they can maintain a calm and composed attitude, facing the ups and downs without being perturbed by external factors or allowing their emotions to sway.

Life is short, and only when we have a clear understanding and live with clarity will we realize that everything in life is not worth fussing over. As long as you do not contend with yourself, there will be no worries, and your inner self will naturally remain tranquil and composed. When your inner self is sufficiently calm and serene, maintaining a detached and open-minded state, you will find that even when faced with provocation, adversity, or life’s uncertainties, they will have little impact on you. After you have come to terms with the impermanence of life and death, your heart will become more tranquil and serene, ultimately allowing you to live with greater equanimity and contentment.