Don't Worry, Be Happy

It's Friday people! Time to be happy!!!!

Are you in a rut? Do you complain about everything? Is the whole world negative in your eyes?

Well change things!!!

Negative emotions are natural. That doesn't mean you have to carry them around. Let go of the negative feelings. If you don't, it's going to be harder to let go of them in the end.

Every day, find a way to appreciate three to five things that made you happy. They can be big or little, from a great meal or an unexpected smile. Write it down, take photos, videos or whatever it takes to keep those feelings fresh.

Money can't buy happiness. But one thing it can do is purchase memorable experiences. Think about what would make you happier - lunches out daily or saving that cash for something special.

A key ingredient to happiness is social relations. When we're sharing our attentions like opening a door for a stranger, passing out homemade cookies, or simply smiling at others, those are good happiness boosters.

Do you worry too much about the future and avoid the here and now? Wake up, there is joy all around us so stop and smell the flowers!!

Traffic jams, long lines or a spilled drink - sometimes, there's nothing you can do.
Distinguish between things or events you can change, and those you have no control over. Rather than fume or argue, accept and move on.

Committing to things you don't want to do, let alone have to do, will kill happiness. Hello, it's okay to say, "Thanks, but no thanks I can't do that!!" Don't give in to guilt!!

People for the most part schedule their day around what they have to do. The things that give us pleasure are at the bottom of our to-do lists. Good news - experiencing pleasure does not have to come at the expense of our responsibilities. You can have both. Learn how to schedule.

One common mistake people make is to fill their free time with passive pleasure. At the end of a hard day, we veg out in front of the TV, or turn to alcohol to relax. Little wonder we're too tired to do anything stimulating or challenging. Change that people! Get involved with a hobby (like a blog) or pick other activities you enjoy and care about.

When you exercise and your heart begins to pound, your body releases endorphins, which leads to an increased feeling of happiness.

Now to close this I will point out there are some real good ways to make your heart pound that will certainly increase happiness and you'll sleep better, feel better and look better, too.

And with that we end another grand and glorious week. Get out of a rut and share a little sunshine with someone over the weekend.