I always say that the quickest and easiest way to find happiness is to notice it. It’s not a goal or something to acquire; it’s our native state, already existing within each of us.
An easy way to develop the habit of happiness is focussing on the good that's already within your life. You can do that by repeating affirmations or paying attention to the little miracles in your life. Here’s my list of today’s little miracles:
- Sleep. My sick daughter’s coughing kept me awake for three nights. Last night I got 6 hours of uninterrupted sleep and awoke with that same joyful energy as when the baby first sleeps through the night. It’s a miracle!
- Health. I too was a little under the weather and appreciate feeling healthy once again.
- Being sick. It made me slow down and rest. Having my daughter home from school gave us time to do nothing together.
- My walking partner. Reliable as the seasons, she shows up at my doorstep with inspirational conversation and motivation to exercise on days when I'd rather stay in bed.
- Coffee. ‘Nuff said.
- My laptop and love of writing. Being mobile makes it possible for me to indulge almost anywhere.
- The weather. December in Vancouver and it’s not raining today.
- The date. Five days until our planet starts hurtling closer to the sun, and the days get longer and warmer.
- My dad. Had a nice conversation with him this morning.
- Can I list coffee again?
I find when I pay attention to the little miracles, big ones happen too. But even if they don't, focusing on what is right:
- Makes me optimistic and open to more good.
- Fills my heart with abundance and gratitude.
- Keeps me in the present, where everything is fine. When my brain starts to catastrophize—something it loves to do—I ask myself How am I right now; what’s happening right here right now? Yes, one day I may become impoverished/develop a life-threatening illness, but am I warm and dry in this moment?
Carpe Diem
Most important, on my deathbed, or on the day that misfortune finds me, wouldn’t I be disappointed if I hadn’t enjoyed the good times? I never want to look back and recognise how much I missed through lack of appreciation. Make it a point to enjoy what you do have when you have it precisely because there are no guarantees in life.
Most important, on my deathbed, or on the day that misfortune finds me, wouldn’t I be disappointed if I hadn’t enjoyed the good times? I never want to look back and recognise how much I missed through lack of appreciation. Make it a point to enjoy what you do have when you have it precisely because there are no guarantees in life.
