5 thieves of happiness

1. Control

- Buddha says acceptance gives peace of mind. Goals and desires aren't bad, but falling short makes u.

You can control what is in your mind. Know what's in your control and what isn't 

2. Conceit

- makes you think you're the greatest person

- that's not true. You are part of a bigger communion. 

- convince you that you and your happiness is all that matters

- to banish conceit, serve others and those around you 

3. Coveting

- not about wanting things in life you dont have , but it is about comparing to others. To covet your neighbours things. 

- the problem comes when you envy, then compare. You become sour, discontented, and you don't wish for other happiness 

- you determine your self-worth based on others, on that inequality

- be happy for others. 

- practice gratitude 

- look inward and chart your own course 

- rhis thief is insidious: 

> prevent it from influencing you

4. Consumption

- this thief tells you that u can only be happy if u buy X. 

- a mixture of greed and posessiveness

- consumerism makes you overly materialistic. And make you base on materials to make you happy. 

- it says that you can buy happiness 

- in truth, u don't need to get anything to be happy. In truth, happiness is knowing that you're already blessed with what u need, to be contented. 

- Good life doesn't come from external acquisition but it comes from within 

5. Comfort

- to be at ease with what you have, in routine, deep seated behavioural pattern. 

- they cling to old behaviours which make them feel safe. But old behaviour can be harmful. E.g. smoking. 

- it makes you resist change

- change is for the good

How to kill the thieves 

1. Notice and be aware of the thief

2. Stop the thief 

3. Replace 

4.  Acceptance