I got the greatest compliment yesterday. My friend said, “You always seem so freaking happy and when you’re not, you’re quick to find the silver lining or apologize for not being at your best.” Wow, I thought to myself, she doesn’t know me (smile)! And, I didn’t even have to buy her lunch. She asked me what do I do to keep myself feeling happy. I shrugged my shoulders, said it was good genes and moved on. But last night, I decided to try to make a list of things I do to keep that happy feeling (it’s not perfect and BTW – I’m not always happy!):
1. Attitude of Gratitude: Sounds cliché, I know, but I really try to be grateful for what I have, even if I feel I want more.
2. Look for the Best: I try to look for the best in everyone and every situation.
3. Control the Tapes: The law of thoughts is that they can control you, unless you decide to control them. We really do have a choice about whether to play our old negative tapes or not. Instead, try (operative word) to create new, happy tapes.
5. Exercise, Exercise, Exercise: Enough said.
6. This Blog: For many years people have suggested that I write a book. No idea what I’d write about, but this blog has been like journaling and it’s given me the opportunity to pause, reflect and get perspective. So, if you don’t want to bare your soul in a blog, then start a journal.
7. Love: There is nothing better than having it in your life and giving it away (and not just to your immediate family)!
8. Forgive and Apologize: I try (although not always successfully) to put my energy into forgiving or apologizing, rather than judgment and resentment. I hope those close to me feel the same way about this.
9. Be Realistic: Too much optimism can cause failure. But realistic optimism has always served me well and resulted in success, not failure.
10. Looking Inside for Approval: This is tough but I really try to look to myself to find peace and happiness. Again, it’s about gratitude.
11. Speak Well of Others: Gossip is negative and makes us feel unhappy in the long run.
12. Smile: This is so true for me! Try it. Smile right now as you’re reading this! Makes you feel good, doesn’t it? Imagine if you were doing it all day. It’s amazing how many smiles I get back from people when I smile at them. It’s energizing!
I have no idea if any of this resonates for you. If not, make your own list and it might just create more focus on what makes you happy!
theyearof50 