In a book published in November 2022, Pope Francis listed “steps” that can be taken toward happiness.
1. “Have big dreams”
The Pope exhorts us to pursue lofty objectives with zeal and audacity as opposed to narrowing our focus and remaining on the perimeter of life. The Pope underlines that we must live up to God’s dreams for us every day, not just on weekends and during special occasions. He contends that we might appreciate the beauty of life by dreaming.
2. “Don’t listen to those who sell illusions”
Pope Francis slams those who “sell illusions and talk about dreams,” labeling them “manipulators of happiness,” and gives a strong warning against them.
3. “Be revolutionary, go against the tide”
In a world where it is normal to enjoy the moment and not worry about making firm and definitive decisions, the leader urges us to be “revolutionary, to rebel against this culture that essentially believes you are incapable of bearing responsibility.” Have the bravery to be happy, he exhorts.
4. “Take risks, even if you end up being wrong”
According to the Pope, in order to be joyful, we must actively participate in life rather than passively observe it “from the balcony” or behave like “a parked vehicle.” He cautions us to “not mix happiness with a sofa” and urges us to take risks and address our worries in order to avoid life with an “anesthetized soul.”
5. “Walk with others”
Pope Francis highlights the importance of being a part of a community and having solid relationships in order for us to be happy. You’ll be more successful if you walk in groups, with friends, and the people you care about. He also counsels getting back up if you fall, emphasizing the importance of not “remaining fallen.”
6. “Live gratuity”
Pope Francis urges us to follow a God who “gives abundantly, to the point that he even helps those who are not faithful,” as an example (Matthew 7:11). He exhorts us to cease evaluating our giving and receiving constantly. “Life was provided to us without charge; we did not pay for it. Accordingly, the Pontiff “We can all give without seeking anything in return.
7. “Look beyond the darkness”
Don’t give up searching for the light in the midst of the darkness we so often feel inside of ourselves and see around us, Francis says. He exhorts us to “look up” in order to “overcome the impulse to remain to lay on the floors of our fears.”
8. “Remember that you are destined for the best”
Finally, Pope Francis reiterates that “God wants the best for us: he wants us joyful.” God doesn’t ask anything of us; all he leaves in our hearts is a joy that is “full and unselfish” and “never watered-down.”