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Here's a secret to living a happier life...

Happiness in life really starts with you.

The second you begin comparing yourself to other people or concerning yourself with how they think of you, you may become despondent, envious, and even depressed.

So I'm here to give you a piece of advice I'd like you to remember for the rest of your life.

Ready for this?

Here goes...

Do not compare yourself to others. Do not worry about what others think of you. And, more importantly, do not rely on anyone else but yourself to be happy in this world!

Yes, our partners, family, kids, and friends all enhance our lives. But if we're not happy with our lives to begin with, there's little others in our immediate social circle can do to augment them.

It bothers me to no end when people rely on the approval of others in order to feel comfortable within their own skin.

So what if you don't follow the herd all the time? Your thoughts, feelings, personality, and preferences count for something, don't they? If you don't agree with something someone does or says, you don't have to condone it. Always stand up for yourself; no one else will.

No matter what happens, you are your own best friend. Nobody else will always be there for you in good times and bad. Marriages and friendships can go sour from one minute to the next, and sometimes the damage is beyond repair. Your relationship with yourself, though, can always be mended and emerge ever stronger.

Never let anyone tell you that you can't do something. Never let anyone shatter your dreams. As Eleanor Roosevelt once said, "No one can make you feel inferior without your consent."

Believe in yourself and you can achieve anything. Only surround yourself with people who encourage you to reach for the stars.

Again, other people should be no more than icing on the already-delicious cake that is your life.

To read earlier posts, click here: How to Understand People

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