So many people go searching for happiness. What I have come to realize is that happiness always comes from within. The sooner this is realized, the sooner happiness can begin.
I think that all anyone ever wants is to be happy. The problem is many people do not know where happiness comes from, so they go off to find it somewhere else. Happiness is a choice, and it all starts with you. Every morning, I try to wake up and choose to have a great day. To be happy. Obviously, not every day is a great day, but your attitude really is everything.
I often describe myself as a very happy and positive person. I think I’ve always been like this. I find joy in the little things, and I tend to have an optimistic view of life. This doesn’t mean that I am positive and happy every single day, but that is always my goal.
Today, I wanted to share some ways to live a happier life overall, but I am changing things up a bit. I am really excited because I decided to include a few of my friends and family members in on this blog post! I asked them all the same question: What is one thing you would say to someone who wants to live a happier life? This may seem like a surface question, but in reality, it is extremely deep and personal. I am going to include a few of my family members and friends responses, and my own as well. Keep in mind that these responses are paraphrased, however I included their main point(s). I also included a couple quotes that stood out to me the most. Their answers were brief, but in my opinion, very meaningful.
Here were the responses (in no particular order):
Say positive mantras daily
Whether that is “Today is going to be a great day” or “I am grateful for what I have”. By focusing on the positive things in life and remaining optimistic, happiness will follow. “Never underestimate the importance of recognizing the silver linings in life.”
Love your job
No one wants to spend their lives miserable. We all start somewhere, just make sure you are working hard to get to where you really want to be. They always say that when you love your job, it doesn’t necessarily feel like work. Make sure you’re doing what you love. (This person also mentioned that having a furry friend in your life can bring so much joy as well.)
Let go of your past
Holding grudges will only hurt you in the end, so there is no reason to hold hate or bitterness in your heart. This person also stressed the importance of removing toxic people from your life and forgiving everyone. Remaining positive is key in her life as well.
Spread more love and less hate
Being cruel and mean will get you absolutely nowhere in life. Love and kindness are powerful. What you put out into the world will ultimately come back to you. Spread love always.
Don’t worry about what other people think
It shouldn’t matter so much what people say or think about you because at the end of the day, your own opinion of yourself should matter more. Focus on yourself and do what you want to do. That is what is going to bring happiness. “Nobody is putting as much effort into thinking about you, as you are.”
Delve into your passions
Focus on your goals and your dreams and work hard to make them a reality. You really can do anything you want in life, and by working toward your passions, happiness will always be with you. Do not let anyone discourage you or make you believe that you can’t accomplish your dreams.
Go with the flow
Sometimes, being a planner (especially during an unpredictable time) can lead to a lot of disappointment. There are going to be moments in life when things will not go your way, and it is important to adapt in these situations. Understand that change is going to come, but know that how you react matters most.
Think positive thoughts
“Your thoughts control your actions and they will control your mind too.” Remember to always remain positive and never let negative comments from others bring you down. Do the things that make you happy, and spread kindness to everyone. This person also mentioned the importance of incorporating meditation into ones daily life.
Surround yourself with family
It is so important to have your loved ones around you. Family should always be a priority, and making time to be with them is what makes this person very happy. Not everyone has a great relationship with their family members, so if this is you, try to find friends who feel like family, and keep them close. Having good people in your life can help you in ways you couldn’t imagine.
Every answer I received was beautiful and personal to the individual. I found it interesting to see what everyone said because happiness means something different to everyone. Some common themes I found were positivity and kindness. I was very happy to include these people in this blog post because they mean a lot to me.
Remember that ultimately, happiness is a choice. Yes, good things are going to happen and yes, bad things are going to happen. But, at least to me, you can choose how to react to most situations you face. Being happy truly does come from the heart. If you wake up every day, focus on the positive, and choose happiness, I promise, you will find it.
Thank you so much for reading! Until next time!
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