What does the word “happiness” mean to you? Webster describes it as a life full of pleasure, joy, exhilaration, bliss, contentedness, delight, enjoyment, and satisfaction.
Obviously, it’s easier said than done. There wouldn’t be thousands of self-help books written to read or purchase or thousands of clinical psychologists available for hire if there wasn’t a huge search for happiness. The songs, “Don’t worry, be happy” or “count your blessings, one by one” carefully address the issue…and aren’t helpful to many people.
The unhappy ones come in many shapes and sizes, but I want to share with you my “favorites.” Mine is the “puker”, you know the one that likes to vomit their problems all over you. I also love the “victim”, the one that enjoys sharing the sordid trespasses of others and how miserable that person has made their life. You see them coming or calling and you want to run or hang up as fast as you can.
So why do we spend more time thinking about what is making us unhappy, instead of focusing on our overall happiness? I read recently that 85% of Americans will say that they are “generally happy” with their personal life, but most of us want to talk about how we are unhappy 15% of the time. We spend most of our time pondering and submerging our thoughts in our own unhappiness. How do we change this “stinkin’ thinkin’?”
Have you ever considered learning to change your focus? Try focusing on those positive aspects of your life. Learn to really appreciate those things you enjoy about your spouse, partner, children, work, or environment. Learn to express, in a positive manner, by sharing compliments with those around you and not make “finding fault” part of your daily thoughts and routine.
I submit that you will feel happier and find yourself around happier people. Call them “baby steps” to happiness.
