How often do we say, “I’ll be happy when…”?

• When I get that job…
• When I have more money…
• When I meet the right person…

We convince ourselves that happiness is somewhere in the future, waiting for us to reach the next milestone. But this way of thinking is what Dr. Srikumar Rao calls the “If-Then” model—the belief that if something happens, then we’ll finally feel happy.

But here’s the truth: That moment never really comes.

When we finally reach a goal, we feel good—but only for a short time. Then, a new goal takes its place, and we start chasing the next “if.” It’s an endless cycle, keeping us stressed, anxious, and never truly satisfied.
We spend so much time waiting for happiness that we forget to actually live.

Chase Your Dreams – But Don’t Lose Yourself in the Process

Dreams and ambitions are important, but they shouldn’t come at the cost of your present joy. 
Dr. Rao challenges us to break free from the belief that happiness is always somewhere else.
Happiness isn’t in the next achievement. It’s not waiting for you at the finish line. 
It’s already here—hidden in the small moments of today.

How to Stop Delaying Your Happiness

• Notice the trap – Are you constantly postponing happiness, thinking it’s in the next big thing? Shift your focus to what’s already in front of you.

• Appreciate what you have – Gratitude changes everything. The more you value the present, the richer your life feels.

•  Detach happiness from results – Work toward your goals, but don’t let them control your joy. You are more than your achievements.

• Be present – Slow down. Enjoy the little things—a deep breath, a kind word, a quiet morning. This is life.

• Realize happiness is a choice – It’s not something you earn. It’s something you create.

No achievement will ever be enough if you don’t learn to embrace the present. 
True self-care is letting go of the chase and finding joy in the now.

Why wait for happiness when you can create it today?

Watch Dr. Srikumar Rao’s talk on “The Simple Secret to Daily Bliss” here: