“I have chosen to be happy because it’s good for my health.”
Voltaire
Choosing to be happy is a wonderful idea for your all-round life, let alone your health.
But how do you choose happiness in a world filled with sorrow? How do you choose to feel happy when you’re experiencing really tough times? How do you turn your dark days into light ones? Your anger into peace? Your money worries into acceptance of what is, so you don’t lie in bed wondering how you’ll pay your phone bill this month?
Well, I believe it is a choice.
But you say: “Oh sure, even when I’m annoyed that I just can’t seem to get published? I can’t even start my book because I have so many distractions. I have so many self-doubts about my writing that I’m not sure I should go on. Besides, I’m too old now to think I could ever get a book written, let alone published. Anyway, I don’t see most people walking down the street smiling.”
But you could be one of those people walking down the street smiling.
How?
Let me suggest a few ways that I use in my life.
* Smile, even when you’re sitting at your desk. Sure you feel silly, but nobody’s there watching you, and you’ll soon begin to smile, for real. Maybe even chuckle.
* In your journal, write a list of all the things that make you feel good: Like walking in a brisk breeze and you can feel your cheeks reddening (mine did today). Like watching the dogs zoom around at the dog park, sniffing each other, then chasing like they’re in a race; having a grand old time. Like having a sudsy warm bath. Like listening to good music. Like having a good chat with your best friend. You get the picture. Create your own list.
* Breathe deeply and feel the oxygen enter your lungs. You’re alive. What are you planning on doing with your precious life?
* Write a gratitude journal. What are you grateful for in your life? If you can’t come up with much, start with being thankful for your fingers and toes, your body that works, your voice that speaks to people. After getting into this ‘attitude of gratitude’ you’ll start noticing that there are more and more things to add to that list.
* Forgive any grudges or angry glitches going on between you and a dear one. There are too many wars in the world, so isn’t it important to heal the battles with people you love? This can really lead you to a happier life.
* Be Kind: Do something nice for your neighbour, smile at a stranger, look into your partner’s eyes and tell him/her that you love them.
* Meditate. Take time out of your day to be quiet, to tune in and listen to your own inner voice. You will begin to feel happier.
Okay, these are just a few things that I do and they make me feel happy. Try them and notice what happens.
You’ll find more suggestions like these in my newest book, Write a Journal So Your Soul Smiles. Visit http://amazon.com/author/melbaburns for other books too.
Have a happy day.