The general view is that happiness comes from getting what you want. The equation is simple. On one hand we want something of a certain value. If we receive that thing or something more valuable that we can then trade for the thing we want, we’ll be happy.
But is there a rule which says we only need to work on one side of the equation, that is, only focus on the part where we get what we want? What happens if we put our resources into working on the other side of the equation, the part where we define what we want?
If we train ourselves to note what is happening, we end up wanting less from external sources in life. Now, with present moment awareness, we can satisfy the equation in a very elegant and efficient way, not by getting more, but by wanting less. Many people are surprised when they learn that this counter intuitive approach really works.
But, it gets better. Something magical happens when we learn how to mentally note more often. We become more effective in the things we’re doing simply because we’re paying attention. We start to generate more good will because we are more careful about how we treat other people.
These benefits lead to greater success in every aspect of our lives. So, the result is that we gain on both sides of the equation. When we’re mindful by noting, we want less and get more. That is why the single most important thing you can do to become happier today is to train in mindfulness.