I still remember when I was contemplating moving from California to Mexico nearly two decades ago. I wondered if it was okay to decide to do something just because I believed it would make me happy.
At that time, many people thought my decision to move wasn’t a good idea at all. They pointed out the risks and challenges: no one knew me in Mexico; I wouldn’t speak the language; and I’d be completely outside my comfort zone. My main job with a steady salary and great health insurance would also have been left behind.
However, I eventually chose to do what made me happy. After years of conditioning myself to follow societal expectations, I realized that personal happiness wasn’t always at the top of those formulas. It was time for a change.
I chose Mazatlán as my new home because it brought me joy when I visited there on vacation. I knew I had to make it part of my life. And, 18 years later, I’m living in Mexico, and I’ve learned some valuable lessons about happiness.
Happiness is a mindset.
While there will be times when happiness feels impossible, like during a root canal, creating a foundation of happiness makes it easier not to sweat the small stuff and see things with a broader perspective. Living in Mexico has taught me to take things lightly. The power goes out; your patio floods; or the bank machine eats your card on a Sunday. All you can do is keep going, maintaining a positive attitude, and remembering that this too shall pass.
Happiness is also a conscious choice.
You decide whether you want to be happy or not. In Mexico, there’s an interesting concept called “mañana.” If something can’t happen today, it’ll happen mañana – which may mean tomorrow, the next day, or even later. It doesn’t matter; what matters is that it will happen when it does. This mindset takes time to adjust to for Americans who are used to a more structured and scheduled life.
Less financial stress leads to greater happiness.
Not having to worry about money can make you happier. When I moved to Mexico, my cost of living decreased significantly, and I was able to enjoy the simple things in life without breaking the bank.
Family is essential to happiness.
In Mexican culture, family and community are very important. Neighbors help each other; families spend quality time together; and everyone looks out for one another. This warmth has been a valuable lesson for me as an American expat living abroad.
In conclusion, I’ve learned that making happiness a priority in my life has led to a more fulfilling existence. By doing little things that bring me joy and choosing what makes me happy, I’ve found a level of consistent happiness I never thought possible. Nearly two decades after moving to Mexico, I’m grateful for the decision and excited to see what the future holds.
Source: CNBC
