What makes you happy? The sun shining? Clear blue skies with an airplane or two flying overhead? A walk in the forest? Or sitting by the fireplace with hot cocoa and a good book. The nice thing about happiness is that it calms the system, makes one feel safe, relaxed, and content.

When we are children we are immune to chaos, deadlines, and expectations from others to be or do something to prove ourselves. For the most part we stay in a happy bubble. But then we start school and the work begins. We form friendships while our parents push us to be the best or do our best.

We are still happy but now there are those markers such as grades, sports or activities we join, and just the fitting into society. School and sports or activities (ballet, guitar, singing lessons) are helping us to learn from other authority figures while learning how to hone our social skills and making us better humans (or so we hope).

For some people they are never happy. They look to others to make them happy. It is seen with parents that put pressure on their kids to do their best (still important!) but is it what the child wants? Now don’t get me wrong! Children need direction but they still need play time (outside of sports and activities) to find some relaxation. Everyone needs relaxation. But a partner or relationship isn’t going to bring you happiness or a job you hate.

Yes, we all need money to live but working at something you love brings more satisfaction and usually more money because it is much easier to do enjoy!.

Fast forward to today.

WIth what has happened with the Forced Quarantine in each state, lots of people have had time to relax (because they have no choice)! But it still means that we can find happiness. So here are some suggestions:

Write in a gratitude journal on a daily basis. You have a lot of great things going on in your life. For one, you are alive and breathing. You have a family and friends that care about you. Taking five minutes to write: I am grateful for (fill in the blank) can be a positive way to seeing what you already have in your life. You have shelter, food, family, friends, etc. Look at the glass as half full rather than half empty. Writing every day can help God and the Universe to bring you more good things in your life! That is true!

Spending time in nature is extremely important. Breathing in fresh air outside, walking in a Forest Preserve or at a Park can make you feel calmer.

Digging in the dirt (even on an Apartment Patio) can be very relaxing plus planting seeds and seeing them grow brings a sense of accomplishment.

Turn off the TV and especially the News! Read a book that is non-fiction or a biography. If possible, sitting outside to read is even better.

Painting or coloring in a Coloring Book isn’t childish but can have a calming effect especially if you stay inside the lines.

There are lots of things that can make us happy. Finding the right thing that brings you up can make a difference for you today.