“When the mind moves even a little, that is samsāra (worldly bondage); when the mind abides firmly and motionlessly (in the state of the Self), that is mukti. Therefore, the wise man must hold his mind firm in the state of supreme self-awareness.”
— Ramana Maharshi
What do you do when you’re in a great mood and a car cuts in your way? You merely smile and carry on driving. And when you’re in anxious or upset? You let loose a barrage of words that anyone who knows you would be shocked to hear.
Same situation, contrasting reactions. The only factor that influenced them was your mood.
What puts you in a good mood? A promotion, a windfall of money, maybe a new relationship. The only problem is they occur rarely, they’re outside your control, and their effects are short-lived.
But you also experience happiness when you focus on an important task long enough to make meaningful progress at it. In fact, this happiness lasts longer and improves your self-esteem. And getting in such a state of focus is fully under your control. Which means you can create your own happiness.
Today, ask yourself: What goal can I work on to make my life, career, or relationships better? How will I avoid the distractions that get in my way? Then act on it.
The resulting state of happiness will not get affected by people or events.