Three Questions That Determine Nearly All of Your Happiness
Happiness isn’t as complicated as we make it. I think it’s about getting back to the basics–the things that actually make a difference in our lives.
It’s really pretty simple. I think happiness is life. It’s well-being. It’s the everyday stuff we’re dealing with and how we choose to take it in.
For me, it’s about us, the people we’re around, and what we’re doing with our time. Yeah, that about sums it up..at least for me.
Answer these three questions, and I think you’ll agree–nearly all of your happiness comes when you feel good about these responses. And if not, they just might inspire you to make a change anyway.
Table of Contents
1. How Well Am I Treating My Body and Why?
This question isn’t about vanity or chasing a certain look. It’s about how you care for yourself, inside and out. Your physical habits directly impact your mental and emotional well-being.
Think about it. When you’re exhausted, eating poorly, or skipping movement altogether, it’s not just your body that suffers—it’s your mood, energy, and even your sense of self-worth.
Conversely, small, consistent efforts to treat your body well can ripple into every part of your life. And this is where the 80-20 rule comes in.
You don’t need to be perfect to feel good. Focus on the 20% of habits that bring 80% of the results–like prioritizing sleep, staying active most days, and choosing whole foods most of the time. These small, impactful choices create balance without making you feel like you have to sacrifice everything. The occasional indulgence or missed workout won’t derail you because you’re consistently making the choices that matter.
So, ask yourself: Am I giving my body the care it deserves? Or am I neglecting it because I think it doesn’t affect my happiness? The answer could change everything.
2. Who Are You Spending Your Time With and Why?
It’s said that we’re the average of the people we spend the most time with. Whether you realize it or not, the company you keep shapes your thoughts, habits, and happiness.
Are the people in your life uplifting you or draining you? Are they encouraging your growth, or are they keeping you stuck in the same patterns? Toxic relationships don’t just hurt for the moment—they have a lasting impact on your mindset and outlook.
Take a close look at your circle. If negativity dominates, it might be time to reevaluate those connections. Instead, prioritize relationships that add value to your life. Surround yourself with people who inspire you, challenge you, and make you better.
Your happiness often hinges on the people around you. Choose wisely.
What Am I Working On and Why?
This question might sound simple, but it’s one of the most important ones you’ll ever ask yourself. What you work on–whether it’s your career, a personal project, or even your family–should connect to something meaningful.
It’s not about loving every moment of your job or daily grind…even the best jobs or projects come with their share of frustration. But when you tie your work to a greater purpose, it changes everything.
Maybe your job provides financial stability for your family. Maybe your hobby gives you a creative outlet that feeds your soul. The key is to know your why. When you do, even the mundane tasks start to feel like they’re part of something bigger.
Ask yourself: Does my work align with my values and goals? If not, what small steps can I take to make it more meaningful? Purpose is what turns effort into fulfillment.
Next Steps
Happiness doesn’t have to feel so elusive. By asking the right questions, you can create a foundation for a life that feels balanced and meaningful.
Take care of your body—not to look good, but to feel good. Spend time with people who inspire you, not those who drain you. And find purpose in your work, no matter how big or small it may seem.
These aren’t quick fixes. In fact, they’re going to take a long time to see change. But they are the conscious choices you make every day and over time they will add up to a life that feels lighter, fuller, and yes–happier. Now it’s your turn to start asking the right questions.
Theresa Bedford is a lifestyle and relationship writer with a passion for self-development and to live life to the fullest. She writes about relationships, mindfulness, and simple living. Her work has been seen on the AP newswire, MSN, Wealth of Geeks, Media Decision, and more.
