These days, I’m talking to a lot of people who just aren’t happy. If you are one of them and are in search of happiness, here’s some of the things that I suggest to my clients . . . .
- Take responsibility for finding happiness . . . for creating happiness . . . for attracting happiness into your life.
- Look ahead. Happiness is more than just good times. What is it that is important to you when you look into your future. What do you want? What does it feel like? Sound like? Smell like? Look like?
- Choose to create a plan for introducing those things into your life now. Chunk them down into do-able little steps so that you can actually believe that they are possible and even inevitable if you stay focused on your goals. Happiness does exist. It happens every day. Learn to create it in your own life
- Gather support on your journey. Notice the people around you that contribute that that feeling of optimism; and notice those that weigh you down. If you need to do some housecleaning with your friends or distance yourself from certain family members in the name of creating your own happiness, you have my permission to do so! Surround yourself with people who have your best interest at heart. If their actions do not support your goals, then it’s time to make space for new friends!
- Practice gratitude recognizing and honoring the gifts and opportunities that abound! I think it is Seneca who said that “Luck is what happens when preparation meets opportunity.” Do you part in being ready to embrace luck and joy by being prepared. When you do this, opportunities for happiness show up.
- And, choose the spiritual practice of “Yes!“ By this, I mean accept those situations and offerings that come your way with a sense of curiosity and a sense of adventure. Happiness sometimes shows up in unexpected places.
- Rely on your strong suits. Rather than always trying to improve your weaknesses, trust that your strengths are more than adequate to bring you joy. You are enough just as you are right now. If you don’t know that already, learn it. Trust it. Lean into it. You are enough right now.
I know that there are other tips that you can share that have helped you along your journey. Feel free to add them with your comments below!