Quietness

Theme: Emotions

This is not exactly an emotion. But some emotions can be related to it.

Personally, I am quiet, and I like quietness too. But not silence, though. There is a shade of difference between the two.

In our fast-paced, information-saturated world, quietness is a rarity.

But the fact is that an environment shorn of noise offers strength and beauty. 

Actually, being quiet is not just about the volume of sound or noise. It can mean a lot more.

Being quiet allows us to instrospect, reflect and also process our thoughts.

We are able to observe our surroundings better and gather information before we speak. 

We are also able to listen to other people. There is no better way to connect with people than to be a good listener.

When we are quiet, we are at peace, and that goes a long way in ensuring healthy emotional well-being.

Some people mistake a high volume of sound to be an indication of authority. It might be in the short term. In the long run, it doesn't help.    

Similarly, quietness can be mistaken for weakness. But, decisiveness and firmness, when warranted, would indicate the inner strength of quietness.

So, embrace the power of quiet observation, thoughtful reflection, and the strength that comes from a calm mind.

(I'm participating in #AtoZChallenge and #BlogchatterA2Z)

Pleasure

Theme: Emotions

I wrote about happiness on April 9. No, pleasure is not the same as happiness. They may be siblings, but they are definitely not twins!

Both are triggered by the chemical dopamine, but something that gives you pleasure is a fleeting, sensory-driven experience. It's the first step to being happy, which is a more sustained feeling of contentment, well-being, and fulfilment.

Writing a blog post can be a pleasurable activity, and the feeling one gets after completing a post is happiness.

A pleasurable activity makes us happy, relaxes us, reduces stress, and makes us feel optimistic. Sharing pleasurable experiences creates stronger bonds between people.

DIMINISHING RETURNS

But don't chase pleasure too much. That is addiciton, like to sugary foods or video games.

There is a theory of diminishing returns. The more you chase it and experience it, the less intense it becomes. That will lead to more stimulation to feel satisfied, which is not good.

SAVOUR SLOWLY

So, what is the way out? Engage in a variety of activities and explore different sources of pleasure to keep things interesting and prevent boredom.

Slow down and truly appreciate the pleasurable experience rather than rushing on to the next one.

Pleasure is a gift, a reminder of the good things in life. It can enhance our emotional and physical well-being and create a life filled with delightful moments. 

(I'm participating in #AtoZChallenge and #BlogchatterA2Z)

Optimism

Theme: Emotions

When I think of this word, what comes to my mind is a glass half filled with water.

In childhood, I was told that looking at a glass as half-full is optimistic and looking at it as half-empty is pessimistic and that it's essential to be optimistic in life.

Optimism is the expectation of positive outcomes and a focus on the bright side of life. It is also a belief that things will ultimately turn out well.

One of my uncles used to say that optimism is not just about being positive; it has a profound impact on our well-being. Optimists are healthier, happier, and more likely to bounce back from setbacks.

REALISM

But isn't optimism an unrealistic concept? Is it not about just building castles in the air?

He used to correct me, saying that optimism is not about believing that there are no problems or obstacles. On the contrary, it's about accepting that there are problems and that you have the ability to overcome them.

It is the difference between saying, "It's doomed," and saying, "No, we can find a way out."

HOW TO BE OPTIMISTIC

Like anything constructive in life, optimism takes effort. We have to train our brains to see the glass as half full rather than half empty.

Look at challenges as opportunities. Instead of 'why', as 'why not'?

Consciously take time out to appreciate the good things in life.

Be friends with positive people.

By developing a more optimistic outlook, you can navigate challenges more effectively, build resilience, and ultimately, live a happier and more fulfilling life.

FOR ME GLASS IS HALF FULL

I am optimistic. I have cultivated that trait over the years.

The best indication of that is my participation in this Challenge. I knew it would be tough, but I told myself that it was possible. I am barely managing it.

I was travelling last week, and got back to Bengaluru only last Sunday. 

That is why I haven't been able to visit the blogs of the other participants or comment on them.

But I will surely catch up. Blog posts will remain, they aren't going to vanish.

(I'm participating in #AtoZChallenge and #BlogchatterA2Z)