Everyone wants to be happy. When we are happy, anything is possible. In our minds we feel capable of accomplishing anything that we set out to do. The world is ours to conquer. Profound happiness is within our grasp.
But, when we experience loss, failure, fear and sadness, problems occur, if we allow those unhappy feelings to continue and dictate how we live.
Each person is in control of their own happiness, as we alone control the thoughts we think. No one else puts thoughts into our mind. Meditation can help cleanse our minds of inappropriate thoughts and focus us in more positive directions but happiness is a choice we must make for ourselves.
To be happy, we need to concentrate on positive thoughts, of joys we’ve experienced in our lives, as we tackle our daily tasks. These things are often so insignificant that we may not consciously acknowledge them; but they are extremely important to our happiness.
The big over-the-top dramatic events may bring happiness; but it’s a fleeting thing, quickly dissipated, leaving only a deep void. Acquiring material possessions also brings us momentary happiness; but it’s also gone the minute they’re unwrapped. It’s the little things we do and enjoy – especially with others – that brings lasting happiness, an innocent, childlike state of being.
The old formula for happiness is still as relevant today, as ever. To be happy, we need something to do, something to look forward to, and someone to love. Note we say ‘someone to love but not someone to love me’. It’s the giving of yourself to others that brings you happiness.
Ask any expectant Mum whether she wants a boy or a girl, and nine times out of ten, she’ll reply, “I don’t mind, as long as my baby’s healthy and happy.”
Ask the parents of ten-year olds, what they want their children to be and you’ll frequently hear, “I don’t care – as long as they’re happy.”
So, what we want most is – health and happiness – the two most important factors in our wellbeing.
Making a conscious effort to be happy – rather than sad – takes a little effort. Some people keep a diary, or write down in a journal, everything they do each day. This allows them to follow their daily progress, through the continuing story of their lives and, as time passes, makes interesting reading.
As well as keeping brief records of daily events in our diaries, Berice and Helen also keep a “Happy Book”. It’s similar to an “Attitude of Gratitude” book – but it differs – as it just records the things that make us happy.
Some days, we have many things to record, others – only a few. It works for us, as we feel up-lifted, when we read back through the things that made us happy and think of those good times. We recommend that you adopt this habit.
Let us help you discover what things make you happy. With this – and by simply recording some happy times – you can develop techniques to help escape those depressing ‘Blue days’.