*This post may contain affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases.
The journey of a thousand miles begins with one intentional step. A single step in the direction towards any goal that you’re trying to reach makes a huge difference, all the difference; it starts you on path of reaching your goal to live a happier life.
One step will lead to another and eventually you will find that you’ve accomplished your goal. Now think of the one goal, let’s start.
Living a happier life is just like reaching any other goal. You must first take a step in the right direction. These steps will get you started on your path:
1. Your Mindset Is Everything
We get so caught up in everyday frustrations that it has become a way of life. And we support others who do it as well. We surround ourselves with a community of complainers. Complainers are victims who don’t see themselves as victims. But when they complain, they are giving up their happiness and more importantly, their power to change a situation they don’t like.
Next time you find yourself complaining about something and feeling like you can’t do anything about it, try this . . . Instead of thinking “I can’t change this, I’m stuck with it” think “I don’t like this. HOW can I change it? WHAT can I do to make it different or better?”
All of a sudden you’ll find yourself back in control of the situation and you’ll be able to think more clearly about how you can make the changes you want to see in your life.
2. Forgiveness Is Key
Holding on to anger or resentment over a person who hurt you is only stealing your power and joy. If there’s nothing you can do to change it, let go of it. Don’t give your happiness away to someone that doesn’t deserve it. Take it back by declaring forgiveness over the situation.
Forgiveness is all about you, no one else. You don’t even have to let the other person know you have forgiven them. And just because you forgive someone does not mean you have to allow them back into your life and give them the opportunity to do it again.
Forgiveness is all about you. Release the hold someone has over your happiness by forgiving them and letting it go.
3. Gratitude Changes Everything
You’ve probably heard that the more you are grateful for what you have, the more you will have to be grateful for. This is so true! Remind yourself daily of all the wonderful things you already have in your life. Especially the simplest things that we often take for granted. A warm bed, a roof over your head, food in your fridge, hot water for a shower.
Many people don’t get to experience those things. You are very fortunate.
Start and end your day with gratitude for all that you already have and all that is on its way to you.
If something wonderful happens during your day, say a silent “thank you”. If you find a great parking space, get in a quick check-out lane at the store, someone brings you a cup of coffee when you really needed it, say thank you. These are all tiny blessings reminding you how fortunate you are.
4. Joy Is A Choice.
Each day you have a choice to make. Be happy and enjoy the day or just make it through another miserable day. The way you greet the day makes all the difference.
Choosing joy, no matter what, will welcome more happiness into your life.
5. Give To Receive
Money is energy and it needs to circulate and breathe. When you use it to do something nice for someone it will find its way back to you in abundance. Pick up an extra cup of coffee for your coworker when you get your own. Pay the toll for the car behind you.
Help a homeless person get a good meal. None of these things will cost much, but they will make you feel better about yourself and ultimately more happy.