Recipe for Happiness

Everyone has their ups and downs, myself included. However, I think that everyone deserves and has the opportunity to be happy, but it requires making a decision and putting in effort. This is something that I have to remind myself on a regular basis. Everyone is 100% responsible for their own life and discovering their joy.

I know more than a few people who blame their unhappiness on what other's have done to them, or what others didn't do for them. And after listening to people talk about why they believe they're unhappy, I just want to tell them this:

Here's my personal recipe for happiness: 

1. Make the conscious decision to grow despite what you've gone through. Everyone has their own struggles; I have certainly gone through plenty myself. However, I choose to look forward rather than dwell on the past. And I've realized that I'm the only one who can make me happy. It also helps to remember that no matter what you're going through or what I'm going through, there's always someone who's in a position much worse.

2. Make good choices. It's a simple concept, but can be hard to implement sometimes, so start small. Eat a piece of fruit instead of a donut (I have such a sweet tooth, this is hard sometimes!). Take a walk outside instead of spending another hour in front of the TV. Read a motivational book. The little things add up.

This is a never-ending process and one that I am always working on. I believe that every little bit helps, and choosing to do something good for yourself will improve your overall health and happiness. Every aspect of our lives corresponds together; it's about finding balance. Being healthy in other areas, whether it be physically or even financially, effects our overall sense of worth.

3. Surround yourself with people who lift you up. This is a big one for me. I've been struggling a lot lately with finding really good "friends"--people whom I truly enjoy being around, and people who inspire me and motivate me to be the best person I can. I read this quote a while back and it really hit home for me: "The key is to keep company only with people who uplift you, whose presence calls forth your best." - Epictetus (In fact, I think I've shared it before)
So, I've been on a quest to find and develop better friendships, which hasn't been easy. My social life has suffered, but in general I feel more fulfilled. Along this journey I've had to really reconsider the relationships I have and decide whether or not they are good for me. I've had to ease up on some people and not hang out with them as much. And it's not because they're bad people, they just don't "call forth my best."

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Some of my favorite "little things" that always make me happy…
-After work I'll sit outside and play with my dogs. Fresh air does wonders.
-I always try to wear something I love, even just a piece of jewelry. I'll wear a fun brooch, a cute necklace, or my favorite shirt. Doing this makes even the worst of days bearable; it's a little reminder every time I look at it.
-I'll make something to give to someone, even if it's just cupcakes or a little note. It always makes my day to be able to give to someone else.

What makes you happy? How do you combat "bad days?"

♥ jenny