HAPPINESS IS AN INSIDE JOB Keys to Finding Your True Happiness and Staying Positive  | Unless you’ve been living in a cave for the past few years, you are undoubtedly familiar with the song containing the immortal phrase: “Don’t worry, be happy.” While this is stellar advice, you may quickly find that, like so many things in life, it is easier said than done. But happiness doesn’t have to be some elusive myth you chase on a seemingly never-ending journey. It is there for the taking, and you just have to reach out and grab it! | DO THE WORK Many people walk around complaining of unhappiness or lack of fulfillment, but have they taken the time to get to know themselves – have they explored what truly does bring them joy or what generates feelings of kindness or generosity in their hearts? We have, each and every day of our lives, the unique ability to be our own best friend or our own worst enemy. We are certainly not doing ourselves any favors by not knowing if we prefer sushi to cheeseburgers, or romantic comedies over "shoot ‘em up" action flicks, or if a visit to an art gallery ranks higher on the list than an afternoon hockey game. And yes, you might certainly adore all the aforementioned things, but people who are in touch with specific things that make them feel positive and centered have a sort of built-in honing device they can draw on, should they start to feel down. | | BE THE POSITIVE CHANGE IN YOUR LIFE You’ve probably heard this phrase too: “Be the change that you want to see in the world.” A great way to pursue happiness is to attempt to be a part of righting the wrongs you see in our world. Nothing feels better than participation and the true sense of pride and fulfillment you get when you put forth effort for a cause that matters to you. Any involvement, big or small, will likely give you a feeling of calm and a quiet satisfaction you’ll get addicted to. Hey, it’s okay! Helping others is a totally acceptable obsession! Imagine the feeling of giddy empowerment you’ll feel when you see with your own eyes how you can make a difference in the lives of others.  IT’S ALL YOU, DIVAS I was very lucky to grow up in house full of positive attitudes and the acknowledgment of the fact that the power of our minds can shape our lives. I know from experience that you can wake up each day and decide to be happy and have a positive outlook on life regardless of what cards you might be dealt as the day progresses. If I get down or start to feel sorry for myself for any reason, I can easily think of a person who has a situation much more dire than my own. I make a point to practice gratitude daily and to never take for granted all that is fabulous about my life. If you get in the habit of looking at the glass as half full, it will become second nature in no time. It is equally as easy to make a habit of harping on all the negative the world has to offer. Believe me, it’s out there; I just choose to channel my energy toward the positive as it is also abundant when you open your eyes to it. | I have an affirmation card that reads: “Love, joy and happiness are there for the taking.” It reminds me that happiness is tangible; it is not elusive, but readily available. Much of happiness has to do with being happy with what’s in front of you and not constantly wishing for something else, whatever that may be for each individual person. Decide to be happy, believe you can and that you already are, and you will live a life of joy and fulfillment inspired by your own inner light. See More Tips! | | | | | Also Try... | | | | | | Article Written By: Laura Miller; Laura is a beauty and health/wellness/fitness writer living in Atlanta, Ga. Her many years in the salon and spa business served as a springboard for her next career move as a full-time writer. She now writes articles for DivaVillage.com and their sister-site VillageMAMA.com. |
