How to Generate a Little Happiness Every Day
By Sandy Schroeder
Right now you may find it hard to smile in the midst of the pandemic. This is no laughing matter, and a lot of people are fighting for their lives. I have been amazed at how much community there is as people pull together to help each other.
Right now, we can be thankful for all of the people who are in there pitching to help us, and we need to stay positive to respond with applause.
What Do We Do?
Harvard Health advises, "Boost your happiness and inner strength and say a defiant 'NO' to circumstances that may drag you down!"
I like the sound of that. It rings out with confidence and reminds me of all the people in my community who have stepped up to echo the same hearty sentiments. Everywhere I turn, clerks, delivery people, and postal workers, have been there when my family needed them, working hard to make things happen.
So how do we respond to keep that spirit going? Here are a few ideas from Harvard Health. See what you think.
Dig deep to spot your own strengths - Build on your own happiness and skills to stay energized. Think of the things that you do best and then use those talents to operate at your best level. Use your skills to help others and help motivate them. The pandemic will still be there, but you may feel less depressed and more capable.
Find your happiness zone - You know the one, where you are totally involved in what you are doing, leaving no room for sadness, anxiety or negative notions. Your best time may be early in the morning when you sit down at your desk to write, draw, make calls, or create a spreadsheet. Later, you may be on duty as a mom or dad, attempting to stay on track with work and home schooling duties!
Count your blessings and multiply them - Be thankful for family, dear friends, and thoughtful neighbors. Then spread that attitude around as you donate to support groups, and send small gifts and old-fashioned cards to the older people you know who are cooped up.
Savor the taste - Whatever your favorite meal of the day is, make the most of it. Pause over morning coffee and steaming bowls of oats topped with berries. Linger over a tuna and veggie super salad lunch, and treat your family to a fresh tomato pasta, crunchy fish tacos or spicy lean beef chili for dinner. Enjoy!
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Goodyear, Ariz.