Christmas is just around the corner and - gift giving and traditional family squabbles aside - the one reigning theme at this time of year has always been joy. Happiness is something we crave, something we spend our lives chasing, but too often, we focus on short-term temporary spikes of happiness - particularly as December 25th approaches - as opposed to a more long-term sense of contentment; the goal should not only be to get happy but to stay happy. Here we take time out with Irish mum of three and TV presenter Aisling O’Loughlin, who’s learned a thing or two about prioritising happiness for the long-term.
Happiness defined...
“For me it’s about counting your lucky stars, cherishing your loved ones and taking pleasure in the simple things in life.”
Such as?
“A good spud with some melted butter and salt.”
Happiness under pressure...
“I'll take contentment where I can find it, short-term or long-term. But it’s the ongoing happiness that’s the most rewarding. Life is so busy and pressurised. I understand how easy it could be to disappear down a rabbit hole of anxiety and stress; it could happen to any of us. Being aware of that is important. Minding yourself, eating well, playing with children, doing some exercise, having a giggle with friends - all of these things help ease the load and ultimately this is what life is all about.”
Happiness projects...
“As far as I’m concerned, your health is not only your wealth but the key to your sense of ongoing contentment. I try to stay healthy; I drink a lot of water. You know all about it when you're sick, so I try to stay strong and active. Getting involved in life is important. Einstein once said, 'If you want to live a happy life, focus on projects, not people or things'. As a mother I love focusing on my sons, but I understand where he was coming from; projects are vital to give you a sense of purpose and achievement. That's why I'm working on my new website Exquisite.ie it gives me a personal project to work on.”
Happiness No No’s
“The biggest roadblock to long-term happiness is, I believe, comparing yourself to others. I learned a long time ago that to admire someone else is not to take from yourself. It's lovely to enjoy a friend's good fortune without grumbling about your own disadvantages. It's intensely dull conversation anyway when you hear someone comparing. What's the point? “
Untold Happiness
“Motherhood has brought a happiness I didn't think was possible. Sometimes I tear up when Joseph (seven months) breaks a smile. It's so beautiful. The innocence is divine. Louis (3) and Patrick (5) also make me laugh and goof around in an unexpected way. They've brought great depth into my life, even though I'm working harder than ever.”
Happy Social
“Social media is pretty much essential for businesses today, and while many people can find it to negatively affect their lives, I simply keep it at an arm's distance so I would say that it enhances my happiness more than hampers it; I enjoy indulging every now and again to see what everybody is up to.”
We would all be happier if...
“Society was more balanced. Between the massive gap between the rich and the poor, gender inequalities, the cost of renting sky-rocketing, the lack of job opportunities in rural areas, the list goes on. If we had more balance in terms of money, essentially, I think we'd all be a little happier.”
Happiness is...
“The kids sound asleep, silence - sweet silence - a glass of champagne (okay, a bottle, on ice) and a good book. Bliss! I love a bit of quiet in life. The perfect day would have no deadlines and no worries. I’d spend my time playing with the kids and being thoroughly immersed in the moment, then going out for a bite with good friends to laugh and catch up and getting some time in with my parents and sisters for a cup of tea and a natter.”
Electric Ireland wants their customers - new and existing - to stay happy. They endeavour to look after their customers by giving them long-term savings on their gas and electricity bills; not just when you make the switch. Customers can reap the benefits with ongoing savings that can only help to put a smile on your face for the long term. You can claim your savings and find out more about Electric Ireland's great deals here.
