GET HAPPY NOW
By Arnette Travis, Author/Activist/Advocate, RLACEI Contributing Author
Giving The Main Thing!
For many people, the start of a new year is the time for starting something new, setting goals, or eliminating something (or someone) undesirable from their life. Beneath the resolutions is a desire to be happy. That’s the main thing.
Let’s be clear about the main thing: Being happy is a choice – not a goal. As human beings we achieve true happiness when we do something (big or small) that matters and is of benefit to ourselves and/or to others. True lasting happiness comes only from an inner state of being content and satisfied.
Here are the keys to achieving happiness:You have the freedom to choose your own path in life: Do what matters to you. Your life, your rules.
- Maintain positive relationships with the people in your life. Keep good friends close and make new ones.
- Be content with what you have and with your situation; don’t compare yourself unfavorably to others.
- Maintain a positive attitude. Don’t allow yourself to be upset by the changes that happen in life.
- Be consistent in working toward the goals you set for yourself. Every step counts.
- Prioritize mental and physical fitness to reduce the likelihood of developing illness and to increase the likelihood of being happy.
One Last Thing
Author and happiness expert Arthur C. Brooks offers these seven words in the closing chapter of “From Strength to Strength” that helps me maintain my happiness:
- Use things (don’t let them use you)
- Love people (and let them love you)
- Worship the Divine (whatever that means to you).
Happily yours,
— Arnette Travis
