Happy Days Are Here Again!

It took me awhile to get here. But I finally got it! The key to happiness in life? Do what makes you happy.

Oftentimes, we’re raised by our families, friends, culture, community and society to believe that life is about struggle. The 80’s slogan, “No pain, no gain!” epitomizes this belief. Yet, how can we be happy if we’re spending all our time miserable and doing things that deplete rather than fill us? As I was bike riding with my husband today, enjoying nature and the feeling of the wind on my face, I realized how simple it is, and yet how complicated we make things. Maybe we’re afraid of being that happy or believe that it’s a mirage tempting us only to disappear when we get close. Sure there are difficulties in life that I’m not trying to sugar coat but there are always moments in which we can choose joy instead of pain.

So here’s my challenge to you. I dare you to do something that you truly enjoy whether it’s taking 5 minutes for meditation or an hour massage. You don’t have to spend a lot of money to do something that feels indulgent. For me, a night spent writing is a night well spent. Make it a regular event and schedule it in, and soon you’ll be on a path towards true happiness.

And for an inspirational story, check out this one from Chicken Soup for the Soul.