True happiness is one of those feelings that often alludes us. Why? Because we usually don't know when we've got it, or we think we have it when we really don't. So what is it, where does it come from, and how do we find it?

True happiness is a feeling that comes from within. It is elation, excitement, and peace all at the same time. In spite of what we hope for, it does not come from external sources. This is where the allusion lies. We think that if we change jobs, buy a new house, go out for dinner at a fancy restaurant, get a new dress, etc. that we will feel happy. In the short term, we do. The problem is that in order to maintain that feeling we have to keep buying new things and trying to change our environment in the hopes of it making us feel happier.

This is the trap that so many people fall into. Not having an understanding of why they are unable to feel completely at peace for a longer period of time. Am I suggesting you stay in a job you hate or never buy new clothes, as you should be happy with what you have? No. All I am saying is that if you are truly unhappy at a core level, changing your external environment will ultimately have no effect on your long term happiness. In this case it is short term gain with long term pain.

Here are some tips to help you find true happiness in your career and life:

Create space: In order to have true happiness, you must create the space to allow it to come into your career and life. If you do not create space by clearing the clutter (both physical and emotional) there will not be room for anything except chaos.

Get connected with yourself: As happiness is a feeling that comes from within, you must take the time to get connected with who you are on the inside and what it is that makes you truly happy. Keeping a journal is a great way to get connected with yoursel

Practice extraordinary self-care: When you look after yourself and do the things that make you feel at peace, you will find you have more energy and motivation, which ultimately fuels happiness.

Know what you want: You will find that being truly happy will be less illusive if you are clear on what you really want in your work and life. When you focus on what you want, it is easier to eliminate what you don't want resulting in greater happiness and fulfillment.

Change your focus: In order to draw more positive energy to yourself, you need to focus on what's already working rather than on what's not working. It is human nature to focus on what's not right in our life. Shifting your attention to what is right will help you to feel happier.

There is one final thing you can do to bring more happiness into your career and life. It is the one thing that as adults people often miss. Why? Because they get so caught up in being very serious adults that they forget this very important element in a happier, more fulfilling life. You must have fun! Laugh and do things that are fun and bring you joy. Start having fun today and see what kind of difference it makes in your work and life!