***The Top 10 Ways To Be Happy***

So I just went through some other blogs and happened to come across this one. Thought it was fitting - at least for me...

***The Top 10 Ways To Be Happy***
Happiness is a choice. Make the choice to be happy, and while you will face challenging times, you WILL be happier.


1. Be grateful.
This is vital to happiness - be happy with what you've got - not what you want. Appreciate what you have. Case in point - stop obsessing about wanting thinner thighs and be grateful you can walk!


2. Be with positve happy people.
Negativity, complaining, and self pity are draining and contagious. Surround yourself with positve energy, that's contagious, too!


3. Limit negative input.
In addition to the people you surround yourself with, the media can have a huge impact on your happiness level. Stay well informed, but watching news reports over and over again about things you can do nothing about will drain and depress you.


4. Exercise.
I know I know - just what you need, one more person telling you to exercise, you know why? It works!! Research shows that exercise raises seratonin levels in the brain, and it DOES make you feel better. So, find something you like to do and move!


5. Do something for someone else.
Giving of yourself is one of the best highs you can get. When you're doing something that has no gain for you other than the feeling of giving is wonderful.


6. Realize you are in control of your life.
Stop giving away the power in your life, realize that you are the boss of your life. Take responsibility for your own happiness, don't wait for someone else to make you happy, own your life.


7. Spend time outside.
I walk every morning at about 6:30. The half hour I spend outside is invigorating, renewing and helps calm me. If you have any tendancy toward Seasonal Affective Disorder, spending time in the light can help raise your mood. Also, there's nothing like hearing birds, smelling the earth and taking a deep breath to center you.


8. Take time to do things you love.
Are the watercolors you always loved gathering dust in the closet? Do you find time to read all the work related items you have but can't remember the last book you read for fun? Make sure you take time every day to nourish yourself.


9. Smile.
Sounds simple, but try this - today when you go out, smile at everyone you see, you'll be surprised what comes back to you.


10. Believe in something bigger than you.
Having some spiritual faith is enriching and reassuring. When you believe in a spiritual force in life it helps get you through the challenging times and be grateful for the happy times. Whether you pray to God, Universe, Spirit, the Earth,whatever feels best to you, find something to look to for support and peace.