Finding Happiness
It is not easy to find happiness in ourselves, and it is not possible to find it elsewhere.
Agnes Repplier
If happiness is a state of well being that is characterized by positive feelings, then it is a state of mind rather than a thing that can be found. I always tell people the mind is a powerful thing and it can be used for good or evil.
You come home from work and you don’t feel good. In fact you are thinking negative thoughts about things that happened in your day. Maybe you still have a lot to do at home and don’t feel like doing it. Imagine that I have a secret phone booth that you can step in, press a button, and when you step out, you instantly forget about your day and think about something you really want to do.
Try to be aware of the big picture. Remember, human beings are animals that have some basic needs that have to be met in order for them to operate well. Assess your body. You feel some pain behind your eyes or your neck is stiff. You could have low blood sugar because you have not eaten. You may be dehydrated.
Once you have taken care of your basic needs, tell yourself to do something and be positive about it. You may need to cook dinner and feel it is a chore. Tell yourself that you will enjoy it. Put some comfortable clothes on, get things started, and put on some music. Decide that you will be in a good mood and sing along to the songs.
It is really up to you to create the environment that will allow you to feel happy. If you make the effort and practice it you can get really good at it.
10 ways to make yourself happier according to Psychology Today.
- Be with others who make you smile.
- Hold on to your values.
- Accept the good.
- Imagine the best.
- Do things you love.
- Find purpose.
- Listen to your heart.
- Push yourself, not others.
- Be open to change.
- Bask in the simple pleasures.