Happiness is fleeting
In fairy tales, the happily ever after comes after many trials. We are raised thinking that if we work hard enough, search wide enough, and choose well enough, we will be happy. If it happens that way, please chalk it up to coincidence. When happiness is attached to a specific event, it is dangerous to think what might happen after the happily part occurs.
Happiness is possible
The pleasant feeling of delight that we search for is attainable. Luckily, I have had many moments of great happiness in life and I like the idea that they don’t have to last so that I can enjoy the anticipation of reaching another. I don’t want my little heart bursting with happiness. My DNA isn’t full of the type of genes that slant me toward a Disney-type demeanor. In my youth, my seriousness described me. It sounded like a flaw; she’s a “serious” child. I gather that meant that I didn’t smile and dance about in glee. I think I am a serious adult too. But on the contrary, I am not an unhappy adult. That would be different.
Don’t take the good times for granted
It’s not a good thing to be able to take happiness for granted. Without stress, when we move beyond obstacles, adapt to changes through great transitions, and treat our lives with the dignity that it deserves, we can enjoy the happiness that has been created. We can enter into a time of high performance, resiliency, health and gratitude. The warmth of this happiness increases our interest in wanting to replicate the experience. If we like what we have created, we will hold it dearly and protect it.
Encourage happiness
It is possible to encourage happiness. I can get lost in time and make that last quite a while if I immerse myself in a subject that I enjoy. Just the break from rumination over a stressful situation can be a reminder of what I am missing when I focus on the negative. Savoring and being mindful of the present can be a reminder of the preciousness of the beauty of my life. Spirituality and its joyful rituals can lift me up to a lovely state.
Social Happiness
It’s not Insta anything. Being a socially happy person means surrounding myself with the family and friends who have a glow. Cultivating optimistic relationships and avoiding the ones that crush the spirit will bring a steady stream of flow, nurture the best parts of me and help me express gratitude for the events that support happiness. Good effort and time will reap more rewards.
In your sunshiney life, when do you actually feel happy? Are you naturally happy or do you need to invest more in it? Why do we yearn for happiness?
