There's something about getting older that makes the seasonal activities stand out more and more. Like eating apples in the fall, and candy corn at Halloween, the New Year bring up thoughts of wanting to be a better person.
This year I see a lot of talk about how to be happier. Something seems a little off to me on the idea that you can try to be happier all the time. Like "Have a Whole Year of Happiness!" It's so proactive. Really happiness in my opinion should just sneak up on you. You can't force it. Just be yourself and do what you think is right and happiness will follow. Sadness too. It all goes together.
I do believe in the power of positive thinking. But I think that its too much pressure to expect happiness. Expecting anything at all, really. Why not just open your eyes to what is going on right now. See the bird flying past your car window and smile at its feathers and wings. Life is out there all around us. There is always stuff to look at and think about. I don't know if I really care that much about being happy per se. I just want to be healthy and comfortable! A bit of a nap and I am quite content. And content is awesome. Content in fact makes me happy.
There can be little in the world more stressful that wondering if you are happy enough. Or worrying that other people are happier than you are. Don't worry about being happy. Just be.
10 Things That Make Me Happy, in no particular order:
Having a clean house.
Watching my kids play, learn, and grow.
Getting a hug from the hubster.
Blogging.
My awesome job.
My friends and family.
Reading.
Knitting.
Seeing a butterfly, bird, rainbow, tree, leaf, or other natural stuff.
Thrift store shopping.
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This New Year I don't have any resolution. I already have a general resolution to pay all my bills on time and generate no new debt other than hubster's student loans. That's been going on so its not new. I already try to be healthy and eat well. I am more concerned about general healthy eating than weight loss in particular. My health does not allow me to even think about weight loss supplements like Fastin or anything like that.
If anything, I guess I would resolve to be a better parent. I would like to give up yelling. Yeah, that's a good resolution.
