Contributed to Kesha F.

Happiness is up to you. It is a state of being that you are in control of.  Some may think it is elusive but it is easier than you think if you just take responsibility for your happiness. Here are a few happiness tips.

Forgive. Holding on to a grudge is bad news. I know people who have held on to grudges for decades.  It is perfectly fine, even advisable, not to involve yourself with someone who has harmed you in the past; but, to hold on to the hatred, only hurts you.

Socialize. Talk to people – your friends, your coworkers, your family – but don’t just stop there. Talk to people while on line at the supermarket, have a conversation with the waiter serving you lunch. Talking to people helps boost your serotonin levels which in turn makes you feel happy.

Be Your Success. Money is necessary for what it provides but, I am not talking about how much money you make; I am talking about what is important to you, your own personal definition of success.  What is it?  Take time to figure out what success means to you and commit to that, make it your goal. There is nothing more fulfilling and happiness-producing than going for what is important to you.

Love Yourself. Practice being kind and loving to yourself. Remember these words of wisdom from Buddha:

“You can search throughout the entire universe for someone who is more deserving of your love and affection than you are yourself, and that person is not to be found anywhere. You yourself, as much as anybody in the entire universe deserve your love and affection.”

Do you have any other happiness practices? We invite you to share your ideas in the comment box below.