If only achieving happiness in life could be as easy as embracing discouragement seems to be, we would all be rays of sunshine 24/7. However, that is not how it works. The key word here is “work”: You may have to work for it! Not only is there medical proof that happiness keeps us healthy, but it just makes the world a better place. If you are having trouble finding the silver lining, keep reading!
Laugh. Laugh hard and laugh often! Find the humor in otherwise discouraging situations. So you came to work wearing mismatched shoes… laugh it off! If you are starting to feel down, pull out that comic strip you like or the picture of your kids acting silly and bring on a smile. Watch a funny cat video or fail compilation… anything to get the contagious smile going!
Indulge. When the day has pushed its limits, find a moment of solidarity – and a piece of chocolate. Then take a minute to indulge. It doesn’t have to be chocolate. Indulge in something that will help you find simple pleasure… coffee, soda, a quick massage, etc. If it makes you happy, take a few minutes of your day and enjoy it. You deserve it!
Work it out. Not work as in mounds of paperwork, but at the gym or on a walking trail. Nothing can clear your mind and solve your problems like a little exercise and some time alone. You will not only feel better, but it can be a reset for your mind and a great place to take out frustration!
Take a nap. If all else fails, take a breather. You do not have to go into a deep sleep, but just take some time to recharge the batteries. Find a quiet place and soak in that silence! If it has been a really bad day, go deep within the blankets and don’t come out until you are ready!
While it may be impossible to be happy all day, every day, you deserve as much happiness in life as you can get! One key thing to remember is that you can find happiness in the little things of your day-to-day activities. Don’t focus only on the big rewards. Putting a little effort into achieving happiness through the small things will be well worth the results.