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Happiness is not a
destination. It is a way of life. Burton Hills
When am I going to be
happy? If only I could just have THAT, I would be happy! Why won't they
make me happy? If only I had a nickel for every time I heard one of
those lines, I'd be happy!
Happiness is a tough subject
because it is totally subjective. Each person has their own ideas of
what makes happiness. However, there are some universal aspects of
happiness and contentment that I would like to share. I recently read a
small article in Prevention Magazine (Feb. 2003 issue) that summed up
happiness in a way that was so simple and logical.
Happiness is not being in a
good mood all the time or experiencing joy, but it is a way of life. It
is the outlook of optimism, courage, love and fulfillment, and it is not
something that changes every time your situation changes. I think that
last part is the most important aspect that most people forget.
Being
content with life is not supposed to fluctuate everyday. It is an
attitude, not a gift.
The article in Prevention
Magazine is actually an excerpt from the book "What Happy People Know"
by Dan Baker, PHD & Cameron Stauth. While I have not read the book, I
will, considering how informative the article was. So often we get
caught up in the "when this happens, then I'll be happy" syndrome and we
end up more miserable than we ever dreamed. There are five major
pitfalls when trying to achieve happiness, five things that are sure to
make you happy, and twelve important qualities of happiness.
5 Traps of Happiness
1. Trying to buy happiness
~ never enough always wanting more
2. Seeking happiness in pleasure
~ overloads senses, then senses dulled to pleasure
3. Trying to resolve past
~ memories are part of you, whether good or bad
4. Overcoming weaknesses
~ wastes energy when should be focusing on strengths
5. Trying to force happiness
~ you just cannot decide to be happy
5 Things to Make you Happy
1. Appreciation ~
overrides fear
2. Choice ~ equals freedom
3. Personal Power ~ need I say more
4. Leading with your strengths ~ acknowledging your power
5. Power of language & stories ~ self-talk, affirmations
12 Important Qualities of Happiness
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1. Love
2. Optimism
3. Courage
4. Sense of Freedom
5. Pro-Activity
6. Security |
7. Health
8. Altruism
9. Perspective
10. Humor
11. Purpose
12. Spirituality |
*These are the foundation qualities
for being content with life* |
This article was possible due to the book
"What Happy People Know" by Dan Baker, PHD.
© 2003 MoonAngel's Web
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