Don't Worry, Be Happy

12 Ways To Be Happier
By Eddie Chandler Stress Management Specialist


Happiness is a state of mind. Everyone has days when things don't go well. But chronic unhappiness can affect your health, your career and your relationships. Barring any medical problems or long-term depression that may require medication and professional help, you can control your happiness quotient.

Focus on being happy, and you'll feel and look better. Here are some tips that will help:

1- Be optimistic
View life in a positive way, and you'll surprise yourself with how energized and happy you feel. Remember; women gravitate towards men who are upbeat and positive.
2- Gain perspective
See the big picture in your life and don't let little setbacks upset you. Keep reaching for your goal, whether it's to become vice president, pay off the mortgage or have a long-lasting marriage. You will encounter stumbling blocks along the way; keep your eye on the prize and avoid becoming unhappy over minor problems.
3- Be thankful
Show people some appreciation. Thank a colleague for his assistance. Congratulate a coworker on a successful project. Say a kind word to the waitress who brings you your morning coffee. Give that homeless man you pass on the street a few coins, and be grateful that your life is a happy one.
4- Enjoy life
Make time for yourself and things you enjoy doing: polish your car; do some minor repairs around the house; watch television; go see a show. Make yourself a priority and do what you enjoy. Treat yourself once in a while. As Ralph Waldo Emerson once said; "It is a happy talent to know how to play."
5- Take care of your body
Eat well and exercise. Join a gym, take up running or participate in sports. The camaraderie of being part of a team and going out with your teammates after the game will be beneficial to your body and mind.
6- Change your schedule
Alter your daily routines and you will find new energy. Maintain a clear division between work and recreation, and leave room for fun activities and quiet times of reflection.
Find out if you're subconsciously holding yourself back from being happy…
7- Keep in touch with people
Remember how you felt when you received an unexpected call from an old buddy? Send an e-mail to someone or call old friends and relatives for no other reason than to say "hi."
8- Be creative
Find an outlet for your creative energy. This might involve building or renovating, cartooning or painting, writing, or even landscaping. No matter how busy you are, or how lousy you feel at the end of a week, if you make time for creative activities, you will be happier and healthier.
9- Find a significant other
Sharing experiences with someone you love will boost your happiness. Unconditional love will make you feel secure and content. Sex can also have great health benefits for your body and mind.
10- Talk to someone
Have a "go-to guy" -- a best buddy you can talk to about anything. Your go-to guy won't judge you or try to solve your problems; he'll listen because he knows you'll do the same for him.
11- Dream
Write down your ambitions and slowly fulfill them. You'll have things to look forward to, and somewhere to focus your energy.
12- Forgive
Maybe it's time to forgive someone (or yourself) for something that was said or done. If you were passed over for a promotion or lost your job due to corporate restructuring, recognize that you cannot rewrite history. Accept it and let it go. Regain control of your happiness by letting go of past letdowns.

"don't worry, be happy."

"We create happiness." In the real world, we cannot expect other people to create happiness for us. It is a state of mind that is entirely within your control.

Make your environment one that offers opportunities to recognize and enjoy the positive aspects and good things in life. Strive to be happy.