Happiness can mean different things to different people. And how we achieve our happiness is also a very personal thing. Sadly though, on any given day if you ask someone how they are feeling, how often do they answer that they are 'happy'. Happiness is a state of mind, but it is also a decision. Your decision. No one elses. Being happy won't happen by itself, and you can not rely on others to make it happen for you, it is one thing that is entirely up to you. And it is not always easy. Obviously we all have bad days, sad days, angry outbursts, even fear and anxiety. These are all fine, as long as they don't take over and begin to control us.
We all deserve happiness, but that does not mean it just happens. It is a decision we must make and work at. So what's so good about being happy? Well it sure beats being miserable, and it takes a lot less energy! Being sad is tiring, happiness on the other hand is exhilarating, and infectious. If you smile at someone, they will almost always smile back. If you enter a room full of people, who captures your attention first, the people with happy bright smiley faces, or the ones who frown and glare at you with angry eyes.
Happiness is also the ability to find the good in things, not just the bad. It is about thinking positively and having fun. If you have all these qualities, your life is enriched, and the people who surround you will be enriched also. Happiness is definitely the main ingredient in success. Not the other way around. People have the misconception that if they are successful they will be happy. Not true. You must be happy first, and then success will follow. If you love who you are your success is guaranteed.
Success is finding an equal balance in all aspects of your life, and everything starts with you. The choices you make and the actions you take are responsible for your happiness and your success. And most importantly, taking responsibility. When things go bad, and they do, if you blame others for your misfortunes, you are not being true to yourself. Remember, happiness is a decision, your decision. If you allow others to control those decisions, you will not find success.
So maybe you are not feeling as happy as you would like. Not a problem. Look for solutions. Find something you really like doing. Sometimes just taking some 'time out for you' is all you need. A quite drive in the country, a walk along the beach. Reading a good book. Perhaps a self-improvement course, or motivation seminar. These are a great way to meet people and learn techniques that will help you be the person you want to be.
A great way to get started on the road to a happier life is to do something new or different once a month or even once a week. It doesn't have to be anything big, but you will find that if you persist for a few months it really works.
If you want a successful life, whatever that means to you, then you must be happy. Self-esteem is vital to success, and you won't have self-esteem without happiness. Make the decision today to be happy no matter what. And on the days when you are sad or if bad things happen, allow yourself enough time to deal with it, then move on. Don't dwell on it, the past is to learn from not to live by.
My own personal journey to happiness and success came about from a very unexpected source. I joined a home based business, to earn extra income, and have ended up gaining so much more than just money. I have learnt so much about myself, what I want and how to achieve it. I have found a happiness I never knew through personal growth and my life now has direction and purpose. It is the best decision I have ever made. It could also be the best decision you ever make.
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