Happiness? Success? A few suggestions to jump start your day?

Back to Dr. Brothers…

Some of you may have read my post from a few weeks ago.  I found an article from 2000 (yes, 10 years ago) while helping my 83 year old mom clean out some drawers filled with “stuff”….as only a depression era baby can fill them.

I was struck that as we all contemplate all the things new to our world that have emerged in the last decade….and all the things that we consider antiquated in the last decade….that her words and concepts are very much applicable today….maybe even more so than 10 years ago in light of the increasing pace of activities, inputs, and goals we all seem to try to fit in our daily lives.

So, last time, I introduced you to her article and listed her action steps toward “leading a more joyful life”.  If you want to read that short post, Click Here.

Well, as Dr. Joyce Brothers noted….(and coincidentally, Richard Bolles, author of “What Color is Your Parachute” also notes this) that happiness is a byproduct.  We all seem to pursue happiness, but really that pursuit could be in vain.  From my vantage point, I boil it down pretty simply: Happiness results when we

1)      Satisfy our basic needs (as determined by me, myself, and I)

2)      We satisfy our need for accomplishment (or find purpose, success….really whatever achievement I want at this point in my life)

I really think it is that simple….but I would love to hear points and counterpoints to my theory!

My first point “satisfy our basic needs” really depends A LOT on one’s attitude…doesn’t it?  What are YOUR basic needs?  Some people set a pretty high bar.

Well Dr. Brothers suggests a handy list to get your attitude jump started….toward a more joyful life….so I thought I would share it with you today:

1)      Think that good things will happen

2)      Express gratitude to a loved one

3)      Put your gripes away in a box

4)      Be patient with an annoying person

5)      Do something special for yourself

6)      Reach out to someone who needs comfort

7)      Focus deeply on each moment

8)      Learn from a mistake

9)      Look closely at a flower or tree you haven’t noticed before

10)   Smile

If I could do just a few these today, I think I’m good! J

Have a great day!

Barb