You, Only Happier

"If your joy is derived from what society thinks of you, you're always going to be disappointed."

- Madonna


Like most of us, I enjoy having new things. There's just something about finding the perfect this-or-that, buying it, and taking it home to live among the rest of my “stuff.” And for awhile, I actually derive joy from it... maybe even happiness. Over time though, the shiny new object loses luster and I'm off to find another shoe/dress/piece of furniture/jewelry/car/whatever to admire.

This is typically the way with material things.

If you've lived long enough, you know that “things” don't bring happiness. Often, they just create a larger void.

So what does?

I recently read an interesting article by Gabrielle LeBlanc, a contributing writer for Oprah Magazine, in which she proclaimed, “5 Things Happy People Do.”

1.They find their most golden self. Only through personal growth can we realize our authentic selves. This requires taking on challenges and fulfilling our sense of purpose in life.

2.They design their lives to bring in joy. We should all take a hard look at how we spend our time. It may surprise you that the things we “think” we want, we really don't... like the high-paid jobs that keep us from our families, or relationships that may be emotionally draining.

3.They avoid “if only” fantasies. Everyone has a list of coulda-woulda-shoulda's. The difference is, happy people know that the past is exactly that – the past. Nothing can be done to change what has occurred. We can only move forward from where we are in order to create a better tomorrow.

4.They put best friends first. Happy people tend to spend quality time with those they share a deep connection. So regardless of how many people you know, try spending some quality time with those who are the closest.

5.They allow themselves to be happy. Women are inclined to care for everyone else before ourselves, and may feel guilty for taking time out for personal pleasure. Research has shown that happy people are actually better caretakers. Further, expressing positive emotions like gratitude and optimism may increase life expectancy.

After reading this article, I had to admit, she may be on to something. But I would add one more thing to this list... Happy people believe in a higher power and live their lives accordingly.


What would you add?