1. Stay true to yourself.
So much unhappiness stems from making decisions that go against what you know in your core, your gut, to be right. Deep down, you don't want to do it--but you do it anyway. You listen to your head. You try to convince yourself the raise is worth it, or the risk is too great, or it's better to just stay put, to keep your head down.
Staying true to yourself is a challenge, yes. But effectively suppressing your true self is even more challenging.
2. Do what you love--not what you're told to love.
To spend time (especially a considerable amount of time) doing what you love takes work. Hard work. And the truth is, most people give up. They get a job to pay the bills and do what they love "on the side." Eventually, they lose motivation, fall into the comfort of routine, and give up the very thing they once valued the most. And for years, then, they look back in regret, almost basking in the statement, "I wish I could have...".
It might take a while for you to realize it, but at some point you will. You will feel an immense sense of loss for not having stuck with the thing that once brought you true joy. Even if you never make it your career. Even if you only do it for yourself, still, do it. The fact that "doing something for yourself" is seen as a waste of time and energy is testament enough to our achievement-based society.
3. Create the environment that's right for you.
If you are an extrovert, don't allow yourself to work a job that suppresses that part of you. If you are an introvert, don't try to contort yourself to an extroverted company culture. Your own happiness is a reflection of your day-to-day, the things you're doing, and most important, how you are doing them.
Create your own environment. Put yourself in a place that will help you grow, not suppress your growth. Surround yourself with people who understand, or at least make the effort to understand you. There are always options. Do not settle for someplace that does not feed your core.
4. Choose your friends wisely.
You are a reflection of the five people you spend the most time with--choose them wisely. If they complain a lot, you will inevitably complain a lot. If they are lazy, you will become lazy. If they are not actively improving themselves, you will not actively improve yourself--unless you leave the situation and find others who will reflect that part of you.
It is very difficult to remain in a state of happiness when you are surrounded by negativity
