There is a caveat that comes with Tip #22. This is where most people get confused, in my opinion. The rest of the sentence should say “because you want to.” Do things for others because it makes you feel good, not out of some misguided since of responsibility or obligation, or from some deep inner need to “save” them. All those things come from CONTROL, Not Happy. “Control” and “Happy” are at opposite ends of the emotional spectrum.
Your body knows the truth. It knows what “happy” feels like. So, if you want to be sure that you are doing things for the right reason, check in with your body. Try this test. Think about doing something nice for someone. How does your body feel when you think those thoughts? If you feel relaxed, contented, peaceful, joyful or energized, then it is probably the right thing to do. However, if you feel tense, angry, resentful or stressed, don’t do it.
Trust your body wisdom to show you how to be happy.