We all have bad days. We all have moments where we feel like the world is against us and that happiness is just a pipe dream. However, if you find yourself feeling this way more often than not, it might be time to take a closer look at your habits. Chances are, you’re unwittingly engaging in behaviors that are making you unhappier. Below, we’ll explore 7 of the most common habits of unhappy people.
1. Dwelling on the negative.
One of the most common habits of unhappy people is dwelling on the negative. If something bad happens, they dwell on it for days—if not weeks— letting it consume their every thought. They replay the event over and over again in their heads, picking it apart and dwelling on everything that went wrong. This only serves to make them feel worse and further reinforces their feelings of unhappiness.
2. Comparing themselves to others.
Another common habit of unhappy people is comparing themselves to others. They compare their looks, their possessions, their accomplishments—you name it. And guess what? They always come up short. This comparison game is a never-ending cycle that only leads to feelings of inadequacy and dissatisfaction.
3. Constantly needing validation from others.
Another telltale sign of an unhappy person is that they constantly need validation from others. They need others to tell them they’re doing a good job, that they’re pretty/handsome, that they’re smart, etc. They base their self-worth on the opinions of others which leads to feelings of insecurity and instability.
4. Focusing on what they don’t have instead of what they do have.
Unhappy people tend to focus on what they don’t have instead of what they do have. They dwell on their failed relationships, their unfulfilled dreams, and their missing pieces instead of appreciating the wonderful things they do have in their lives.. This perspective causes them to feel like life is one big disappointment which only leads to more unhappiness.
5. Holding grudges against others.
Unhappy people are also quick to hold grudges against others.. If someone wrongs them—no matter how minor the offense may be—they hold onto that anger and resentment for dear life.. This only serves to poison their own happiness and keep them trapped in a cycle of negativity..
6. Refusing to let go of the past.
Unhappy people also have a hard time letting go of the past.. They dwell on past hurts and slights instead of moving forward with their lives.. This prevents them from ever truly being happy in the present moment..
7. Blaming others for their problems.
Lastly, unhappy people are quick to blame others for their problems.. If something goes wrong, it’s always someone else’s fault.. This victim mentality prevents them from taking responsibility for their own happiness and takes away any power they may have to change their current situation..
While we all have our fair share of unhappy moments, if you find yourself engaging in any of the above-mentioned habits on a regular basis, it might be time to make some changes. Happiness is a choice—and only you can decide whether or not you’re going to let these 7 common habits stand in your way or not.
