5 MINIMAL STEPS TO HAPPINESS

It's May of 2020, we're still in the middle of a pandemic, civil war II, killer bees, and economic stress. How DARE I attempt to throw you a bandaid for happiness?! When life gets hard, it’s easy to dwell on the negative and feel sorry for yourself and your situation. While it takes a lot more effort to be positive and grateful for what we have, it's worth it. It’s about putting things into perspective and choosing happiness.

1. GET SOME REST.

I could easily tell you that you need some sleep, but I can't be so pretentious to believe that all of us can just fall asleep at the drop of a hat. So, for those of us who have difficulty with sleep, I'm offering rest. Rest your body and mind with meditation, and yes... sleep. Either way find some relief in resting your thoughts and limbs.

2. WRITE DOWN YOUR BLESSINGS.

As cheesy as it may sound, get a journal (it actually helps). Then write down positive things that happen that day. Yes... It's a gratitude journal. The goal is 5 or more positive observances, but it's more than fine to just start with one. When I first started, I was constantly being grateful for a new day and air in my lungs. Eventually, you'll start looking for the smallest instances to be grateful, and notice there's plenty of things that you can appreciate.  

3. MAKE AN APPOINTMENT WITH YOURSELF.

Schedule some you time. Seriously. The phrase: Self-care isn't selfish is real. Block off time and call it an appointment. That way you, and others, will take this time serious. Use this time to learn something new, be in nature, read a book, sweat it out (excercise), organize your life with a planner, or take a break from social media.

4. CONNECT WITH OTHERS

After some "Me Time", be sure to reconnect when you're ready. Spend time with your loved ones. Hang out with your closest family, friends, and the people who are there for unconditionally. You can also take some time to help others. Spreading happiness will not only brighten up another person's day, but it will also make you feel better, too. Volunteer for something you're interested, make your mom a cup of tea, call your best friend, or compliment someone on their outfit. Good energy is contagious. 

5. FORCE IT

​You can’t control what happens to you, you can only control how you react to it. You can’t rely on other people to bring you happiness, it must come from within. Cry when you need to, but pull yourself back up (and call your therapist... it helps). Focus on creating a positive mindset! Smile to your reflection in the mirror, and push yourself to find joy.