Mahatma Gandhi once said, “Happiness is when what you think, what you say, and what you do are in harmony.”

Ghandi was a lawyer, pacifist and religious leader who became a symbol of Indian nationalism in the 1920’s and years leading up to the second world war.

There is much truth to this statement but it is easier said than done and fraught with frailty.

In theory, if you act in accordance to your thoughts and speak your truth, you will never feel conflicted and be content.

The reality is, we often don’t espouse or act in line with our beliefs due to fear of ostracism, reprisal or simply because it’s easier to remain silent.

For some, the issue is not alignment. It is simple they don’t know what to believe in anymore.

And for others still, there is a more dangerous scenario. Their beliefs, words and actions are aligned, but they are rooted in a negative or destructive mindset.

Gandhi believed in “satyagraha”, the social doctrine of nonviolence which advocates for the complete renunciation of war and violence as means of achieving goals. The doctrine applies to both nation states and individuals and stems from the ethical conviction that participating in any act of violence is morally wrong. Its literal translation is “holding onto truth”.

His entire life, Ghandi stood up against colonialism, racism, discrimination and violence. He inspired millions with his beliefs, his words and his actions.

Maybe it’s time we all Gandhi’d up. For the sake of our own personal happiness and for the sake of happiness in the world.