"Most people are about as happy as they make up their minds to be."- Abraham Lincoln
Life is full of choices. This blog is dedicated to the most fundamentally important choice we have: to be happy and optimistic.
Most people do not consider happiness and optimism to be "a choice". Nonetheless, it is. It cannot be purchased at any price, but once discovered it is invaluable. Social standing, financial success, spiritual paths, and life experiences are never enough to guarantee one's happiness. The answer is actually far simpler, and one that you have suspected all along.
Do not defer happiness by making it contingent upon future milestones. Here are some examples:
I'll be truly happy...
- ..."After I lose weight and get in better shape"
- ..."When I land the perfect job"
- ..."When my debts are all paid off"
- ..."After finding the perfect mate"
- ..."When my life is not so hectic"
- ..."After the kids are all grown up"
- ..."When I retire"
- ..."As I find the correct spiritual path"
- ..."After a few months or years of continuous sobriety/recovery"
- ..."Once my cancer goes into remission"
- ..."Starting Now"
Only the last choice can start immediately, right now, today, pronto, ASAP. It's that simple starting upon the journey to genuine happiness. Abraham Lincoln was onto something.
There are many misconceptions and societal "lies" surrounding optimism and happiness. We are constantly bombarded with propoganda and untruths regarding the attainment and continuance of happiness and optimism in our lives. Many of these myths are seemingly innocuous, but nonetheless become an entrenched part of our subconscious script because of being constantly reinforced.
Happy and optimistic people...
- ..."Are happy all of the time"
- ..."Have few problems at any moment"
- ..."Are naturally, intrinsically that way and always will remain so"
- ..."Have figured out something that I haven't yet"
- ..."Find it easy to continue to be happy"
- ..."Are normal"
- ..."Have characteristics or qualities that I don't"
During our exploration of happiness and optimism, we will carefully consider the points above, shedding myths and misconceptions along the way. We will explore the latest research, and the latest techniques. Misunderstood and often overlooked characteristics, such as self-efficacy, will be examined.
Happiness and optimism doesn't just happen. It's a choice, and one that can be carefully chosen and executed if we are armed with effective techniques and compelling self-motivation.
And the journey begins.
