IntrospectiveSunday
I’ve often wondered why some people are just naturally happy and others are chronically distraught or depressed. Is there really that much difference between the circumstances of each to cause such a dramatic opposition? I mean, really, don’t we all have good days, bad days, bills that kill, kids that hit home runs, health issues, triumphs, and tragedies? So, if we are all more alike than we think, why the attitude difference?
“Happiness cannot be traveled to, owned, earned, worn or consumed. Happiness is the spiritual experience of living every minute with love, grace and gratitude.” ˜Denis Waitley
I’d like to point out five keys that I use to remind myself that true happiness is a choice…an active one. While reading the following, ask yourself these questions: If I incorporate these simple actions into my life, how will my state of mind be affected? Will I be happier? Is there a reason being happy is so difficult? Before you do, rate your happy-level on a scale from 1 – 10.
♦ Live in the moment; the past is behind you, the future is unknown. There is no time like the present to be.
♦ Focus on your relationships, not being right. People who concede to others during disagreements are more well-adjusted and generally less likely to get stress-related illnesses.
♦ Be aware of your thoughts. Don’t allow yourself to get caught up in your own drama. We can create a world with our minds. The question is, what kind are you working on.
♦ Do everything out of love. Giving above and beyond to help others and by putting them first is a sure way to bring joy into your life.
♦ Be grateful. Each day, write or speak out what you are thankful for. Tell those whom you love that they are important. The rewards are endless.
If this seems like a lot, try adding one a week to make sure you have given each a solid go. Reevaluate your progress after a month to see where you are on the “happy scale”.
Be Beautiful-Be Creative-Be Happy!
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Great post. This year I’m practicing living in the moment, being more aware of my thoughts, and gratitude. Optimism, Advenutre, Wonder.
That’s a wonderful place to be. I really believe it’s the only way that we will look back and smile at what we remember about our lives.
Great post!
I think for so many unhappy people it’s “all about them”. I definitely agree that shining your light on others instead of yourself is a surefire way to increase your happiness.
I also love the Denis Waitley quote.
Live Life Happy!
I agree with you, Kellie, that some people handle stress better than others. But I volunteer at a battered women’s shelter and don’t think anyone has more stress, in general than these women and their children. I work with the kids in small groups and see the fallout from a life of fear,confusion, and pain. It’s not pretty. That’s what my blog, SHELTER KIDS, is about.
http://bit.ly/ruralwriter. Keep up the good work!
Pat