The Quarter-Life Crisis Part 1 focused on where much of society rests today on the spectrum of happiness and overall quality-of-life. Study after study reveal what we already know so well; that most of us are unhappy and many of us struggle with depression throughout our lives.

Yesterday, I shared a brief excerpt from Leo Buscaglia‘s book, Personhood. I wanted to draw attention to this chapter, as it summed up what many of us go through in life. We search, we find a temporary solution, and eventually we revert back to unhappiness. The cycle repeats itself over and over again.

Being in my late twenties, I am right in the midst of this generational rite-of-passage, or so it would seem. I have been on the roller coaster of down and back up, down and back up, and have learned a few things on the way.

Today I wanted to share some of the valuable techniques that I have learned along the way. Some were taught to me, some I read about, and some I learned through trial and error.

#1.) Get in touch with your intuition

It can be difficult to know at first, whether your inner voice is your intuition, or if it is simply the fear that has been instilled through the years. Slowly, over time I have learned to weed through the thoughts and feelings and have began to not only listen to my inner voice, but to trust it completely.

We all have an inner wisdom that goes far beyond our thoughts, we simply need to get in tune with this voice.

This takes practice and patience.

#2.) Question your beliefs

I grew up in a secular home. A Father with a Muslim background, and a Roman Catholic Mother. Though I have wished at times throughout my life that I had the security that I have always believed faith could bring, in retrospect I am happy that I had zero pressure growing up and the freedom to choose my own belief system.

I respect all beliefs, but like many others in Generations X and Y, I have some deep rooted issues with the institution of Religion itself. The separation it brings, and what is done in the name of preserving it in some cultures.

Questioning my beliefs led me through the gamut of many different religions, and I ended up right back where I began. But, with a much greater understanding of faith and perhaps much of the security and comfort I was lacking previously.

For those who identify themselves with a particular religion, sometimes when you begin to question your beliefs it can bring you an even greater understanding and appreciation for your religion.

#3.) Get in touch with nature

I am a city girl at heart, it’s true. However, I live on a farm and live in a city that is completely surrounded by nature. Parks are situated around lakes, and even when you are in the city, you are not far from a nature reserve.

Over the past year I have gained a new respect for Mother Nature and the peace and tranquility she brings us. If I go a single day without a walk, or miss out on a day outside, I do not feel as balanced. Spending time outside allows you to ground yourself and put things into perspective. It often forces you into the present moment as well with its beauty.

#4.) Read, Watch & Listen

The world is overflowing with literature about Spirituality and Personal Growth. If you don’t have time to read, download an audiobook from iTunes and listen on your way to work or on your jog.

If you don’t know where to start, I recently posted the Top 5 Best-Selling Spirituality/Personal Growth books. I have read and loved most of them. Each will contribute to your healing and growing.

Keep your eyes open for opportunities to learn more. Watch for coincidences. There is a Buddhist proverb that says it best, “When the student is ready, the teacher will appear.”

There are many other changes that can be made to initiate positive change and growth. A healthy diet, meditation, yoga and many other habits could make a big contribution. In fact, meditation is in the news daily with its multitude of health and spiritual benefits.

Today I wanted to share some minor changes that can be made over time. Because, this will take time. Eventually we can all sustain a great level of joy if we work to achieve it. This does not have to be a fleeting feeling.

Spiritual author Deepak Chopra best describes the outcome of personal growth, which is not happiness, but bliss. “Bliss is a profound state of peace that comes from getting in touch with the immortal aspect of your being that is called the soul. Bliss is eternal and cannot be shaken. Happiness is usually situational.”

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