Making Happiness Happen

Hey there! In case no one has asked you today…how are you feeling? Do you have concerns about your kids going back to school? Concerned about your family or finances? I get it. I’m right there with you. I’ve found that during times like these you have to make intentional, on-purpose efforts to find your happy.

Happiness is a choice. We all go through things, we all have problems, but that doesn’t mean we can’t be happy! Our thoughts create our reality and if we’re intentional about seeking out happiness, there’s no way it will miss us. It’s not one-size-fits-all, so if you’re unsure of where to start, I’ve got you covered! Make yourself a glass of my Photo Worthy Bloody Mary and kick your feet up while we map out how to make happiness happen.

Start With Gratitude

In order to open yourself up to more, you have to appreciate the things you already have, great and small. Try creating a gratitude list at the beginning and/or end of each day. Think about all of the things you’re grateful for like waking up, having shelter, being in your right mind, or even for the moments when you get to care for yourself in your routine, like brushing your teeth with running water or pouring that glass of wine after a long day. These things don’t necessarily make life “perfect,” but they do make our lives easier and that’s something to be grateful for.

Help Someone…

One way to find joy, especially during a pandemic, is to help someone! Nothing takes your mind off of your problems like being someone else’s solution. Big or small, volunteering is always welcome. Offer to watch a neighbor’s kid or hand out food to those in need at a local church or food bank.

…But Put Your Needs First

There is nothing selfish about taking care of yourself before taking care of others. There’s no way to pour from an empty cup, so make sure you’re full before trying to serve others. Take the space that you need, enjoy alone time, treat yourself, and don’t feel any shame. You deserve it.

When you’re feeling down or unproductive, stop the negativity and be kind to yourself. You’re not alone in feeling this way. Self care looks like a lot of different things for different people, so be sure to indulge in the things that bring you peace. Take yourself on a dinner date, visit your local park or Japanese garden, shop, or make a good cocktail and a bubble bath! Self care is self love and you are so worth it.

Move Your Body

We all know that exercise is good for the body, but did you know that once you start breathing normally again, you will actually be in a better mood? It’s true. You see, movement helps our bodies release serotonin, the happy hormone! We could all use a little bit more of this, so find the type of movement that makes you feel good. Yoga, dance, boxing, strength training, rock climbing, or walking…there are so many ways to move the body and to feel amazing while doing it.

Try Something New

So…what if you have no idea what makes you happy? Don’t beat yourself up. It’s just time to try new things. This will help you get out of your normal routine and comfort zone. Routine can make us feel unsatisfied and bored, so step out…literally. You never know what you’ll discover if you don’t make the space to try! Last month we talked about checking things off your bucket list, so now’s the time to really follow through.

Remember, happiness isn’t a destination, it’s something that we have to always work toward and it can evolve over time! Make the most of each day and do what feels good!