Are You Happy?

Have you given much thought to what it takes to be happy? I feel this an appropriate topic since most all of us have the desire to be happy. I say most of us because I have met numerous people who have chosen misery as their desired state of mind. I am sure you have heard the saying, "Material things do not make you happy." I agree and add, being poor does not make you happy either. I have met some miserable wealthy people and some very happy people who have few material possessions. Merriam-Webster's Online Dictionary defines Happiness as a state of well-being and contentment. So the question should be, how do we attain well-being and contentment? I listened to Chris LoCurto interview Jenn Lim on the Dave Ramsey Entreleadership Podcast. Jenn is the CEO & Chief Happiness Officer of Delivering Happiness, creator of the book Culture and Consultant at Zappos. Jenn stated in the interview that happiness is subjective and different for everyone. I also listened as Roy H. Williams discussed Richard Exley's recipe for happiness on his Monday Morning Memo. Jenn and Richard have similarities in their thoughts on this topic so I have combined them here: Commit to a cause greater than yourself, a higher purpose with a clear vision. Have passion and be true to yourself. Value people rather than things. Develop relationships and connectedness. Give thanks for what you have instead of complaining about what you don't have. Have a sense of progress, continue to learn and grow. Celebrate the ordinary and find joy in life's daily pleasures. Sometimes people confuse pleasure with happiness. Jenn describes this as temporary and will not last. I mentioned earlier that I have met many people who have chosen misery. I believe it is a choice and you can choose to be happy. I also believe many people have the misconception that someone else can make them happy. Happiness comes from within. Most folks are about as happy as they make up their minds to be ~Abraham Lincoln I know that there is nothing better for men than to be happy and do good while they live ~ Ecclesiastes 3:12 What would you add to this list? Comment below to tell me how you attain happiness. Have a happy week! Pierce