If you ask most people what they want more than anything in the world what will they answer? Most likely their answer will be "happiness". People want to be happy, and people have a lot of ideas about what will make them happy as an individual. Some people think it's money. For some, maybe it's love, children, a pet, fame, louiboutins...
What is certain is that nobody really knows! But positive psychology (basically, the study of how to be happy) is a booming field, and a ton of research is going into finding out exactly what it is that makes people happy. Researchers are uncovering some interesting stuff- like being rich, after all, does not make people happy. And that some individuals and cultures have hit the nail on the head and are incredibly happy, despite conditions such as poverty.
I spend a lot of time reading about happiness, and pursuing things that I believe will make me happy. And I would say that I am generally a happy person, and the fact that I am happy makes me happy! What a vicious cycle that is. I think happiness (or the lack of happiness for some) is fascinating. This is going to be a blog about (you guessed it!!) happiness! As I read books, reasearch articles, and watch documentaries about happiness I will share my findings, and I encourage you to share your findings and thoughts! I want this to be a place of inspiration, of thoughtfulness, and of happiness! My goal is for you to find use from this blog in creating your own happiness. And share what you learn!
All of this sparked from what began as a quite dismal day. I woke up in one of those funks. Ya know? Last night it was pointed out to me that I had been a jerk to someone I love, and the guilt I felt about that rode through my dreams and into the morning. So, I spent my morning and afternoon rather mopey, and sucked people into my gloom. And then I decided enough was enough, and thought, "OKAY, what is going to make me happy today?".
Here are some things I have found lead to happiness, or at the very least will help you determine what will make you happy:
A key to our own happiness can be making those around us happy, because happiness can be contagious. Do nice things for people to promote their happiness, and you may just ride their happiness coat tails, so to speak.
Keep a Journal- Keeping a journal will help you sort through your feelings, emotions, and life events. I like to freewrite in my journal, allowing my mind to rant and my hand to do the work. I find that I can get down to the bottom of a frustration or work through a problem quickly and honestly with myself when I do this. Find your own way to benefit from your journaling!
Surround yourself with people that inspire you, challenge you, and help you maintain a positive, peaceful attitude.
 |
| Gasworks Park- a place that brings me happiness. Especially on the sunny days like this one. |
I'd love to hear feedback! Leave a comment, friends.
Coming up next: I will be reflecting on a book I am reading about happiness around the world by Lonely Planet called Happy. Stay Tuned!
"People Inspire you or they drain you. Pick them wisely."
-Hans F. Hansen
