Happy Redwood

“Nothing is either good or bad, but thinking makes it so.”

 -William Shakespeare 

      Although this may be an oversimplification it is a valuable way of thinking. Many things we categorize as good or bad are simply that way because we decide they are. For instance, bad experiences in our lives can bring about truly good change. We learn from bad times. I believe everyone can agree on this. We have all had a "bad" day, one where nothing was going our way. Instead of dwelling on the fact that it was unpleasant, choose to find something you can learn from it. Maybe something as simple as smiling at a coworker instead of quickly walking past them, or going to lunch with a friend instead of eating alone. Once you practice this choice you will become more happy.

This photo was taken while my husband and I waited for AAA to come after breaking down.
Photo Credit- Kurtis Ostrom Photography

    Choose to Change.

    Thinking is a powerful thing. The first step to change is letting go of over thinking. The human mind can get caught up in a cycle, replaying you negative experiences over and over. When you find yourself ruminating, try changing your reaction. Think about your thinking. Choose to learn from that situation instead of continuing to worry about it. You will never gain incite by over thinking, only by action. Discover what you can do to handle that situation better next time and let it go!

Developing Happy.

    Question your beliefs about happiness. Society often tells us that to be happy we must be rich with the best job and the perfect spouse. How many social norms have you gained only to be crushed when they didn't make you happy. A new house or car perhaps? How quickly did you find yourself wanting the next big thing instead of being satisfied. Having goals is not the problem. We all need something to work towards. Simply decide to be happy while you work toward them and not only once you have achieved them. Being happy is a choice. If we appreciate the good things and learn from the "bad" we can enjoy almost every situation. No amount of objects or approval from others will increase your joy.

  

Look inward and change your habits.

Photo Credit- Kurtis Ostrom Photography

 

The Habit of Happy.

    Like any habit happiness is a trait gained from repetition. The more you practice being happy and changing your thinking, the more happy you will become. Think of happiness the same as you think of brushing your teeth in the morning. You make a healthy choice for yourself each day by doing it. Soon enough you won't even have to think about doing it anymore, you will simply be happy.

   Instead of telling ourselves things are good or bad, simply tell yourself they are learning experiences. Let go of ruminating thoughts that drag you down. Let them go so you can move forward. Never let anyone tell you what should or shouldn't make you happy. Make the conscience choice to enjoy something in any situation to develop the habit of happiness.