Secrets towards better life

What's the secret to happiness?

It's not an easy question to answer.

In fact, attaching our happiness to material objects may make us unhappy.

So, what can we do?

According to the Dalai Lama, the key is to develop inner peace, which can be achieved by "awareness of reality" and "compassion".

Here are few profound Buddhist lessons:

1) Never lose hope

It's crucial to keep hope, even in tough times.

Buddhism says that change is built into the nature of things: nothing is inherently fixed, not even our identity. It's important to remember that change is only the law in the universe and it will eventually pass.

According to Buddhist monk, Thanissaro Bhikkhu, the nature of karma also gives up hope:

"In the five reflections, the reflection on karma is the one that gives hope. You realize that you're in charge of your actions. You're not simply a victim of fate or of the stars or of some other being acting through you. You're the one who's making the choices. That's what gives you hope."

2) If we are going to change our life, it’s up to us

Your life is yours, and yours alone. There is no way for anyone to experience the world from your unique perspective. 

The Dalai Lama offers some potent words on this point:

“There is only one important point you must keep in your mind and let it be your guide. No matter what people call you, you are just who you are. Keep to this truth. You must ask yourself how is it you want to live your life. We live and we die, this is the truth that we can only face alone. No one can help us, not even the Buddha. So consider carefully, what prevents you from living the way you want to live your life?”

3) Trust your own common sense

In a world of fake news and algorithmic news feeds we have no control over, it’s more important than ever to exercise our critical thinking skills. We don’t need some expert to tell us what to think. We can think for ourselves.

4) Help others as much as possible

Beautiful words from The Dalai Lama. Sometimes it can help to stop focusing on your own problems and instead help people with theirs. Not only will you help them out, but it might just make you feel better about yourself.

Compassion is one of the most revered qualities in Buddhism. Compassion is also about understanding the basic goodness in all people. It helps you connect wholeheartedly with others, which can be a great source of joy.

Seek to live in a way where you treat everyone as you would yourself. Once you begin doing this, you'll realize the true power of compassion.

Master Buddhist Thich Nhat Hanh offers some great advice:

“When we come into contact with the other person, our thoughts and actions should express our mind of compassion, even if that person says and does things that are not easy to accept. We practice in this way until we see clearly that our love is not contingent upon the other person being lovable.”