6 Strategies for Living Happy

The holidays are upon us and it's that time of year again. It's a time of celebration with family and friends. It's also a time that many of us reflect on the year and give thanks for all that we have been blessed with. Although the holidays are suppose to be a time of joy and happiness, research indicates that for some, it can bring about feelings of loneliness, sadness and stress.

We all want to live happy; however, not everyone is. Living happy is a state of mind and is within your power. Happiness comes from within and you can choose to live happy or you can choose to live unhappy. This is not to say there won't be trails and tribulations or obstacles and hurdles in your life, but rather, how you choose to deal with what is put in front of you. It's all about your attitude.

Here are 6 strategies, if practiced, may very well have you on the road to living happy during the holidays and all year through.

1. Count Your Blessings

Spend time being grateful and thankful for all that you have. Regardless of who you are there is always something you can be thankful for; whether it's your health, children or your family. So, no matter what it is, set aside some time to give thanks. Oftentimes, those who are most unhappy tend to focus on the things they don't have rather than the things they do have. Be grateful for all of the things you have been blessed with, whether big or small, and spend time enjoying what you have. Remember, there is always someone less fortunate than you who would be thrilled to have what you have. You may have a job you hate; however, there is someone out there who is unable to feed their family because they don't have a job. Give thanks each day for all the things you do have and count your blessings.

2. Help Those Who Are Needy

Do something good for someone else. The holidays are a perfect opportunity to do just that. There are so many people who don't have a home or a family to spend time with during the holidays and so many wonderful organizations that would be thrilled to have you volunteer your time. Helping others can bring great happiness to your life and the holidays are a perfect time to give back. So, help brighten up another person's day this holiday season. Doing for others is such a great feeling and knowing that you are helping those in need brings happiness to not only to them, but to you as well. It will also allow you the opportunity to redirect your attention to someone other than you. It is the giving of the heart that brings true happiness.

3. Surround Yourself with Positive People

If you want to live happy, surround yourself with people who are positive. Spend time with people who are motivating, uplifting and encouraging. If you surround yourself with people who are constantly complaining and who have nothing nice to say about anything or anyone, don't expect to be happy. There's a saying, "misery loves company," and that's exactly what you'll get. When you surround yourself with people who do nothing but complain, you begin to take on that persona. Essentially, you are being drained of your joy and happiness. Happiness is contagious; so, if you want to live happy, surround yourself with others who are happy.

4. Smile

This is a simply strategy, yet, for some, the smile seems to be elusive. Smiles are powerful and offer great benefits. Not only does it make you feel good, but the recipient as well. Smiling is contagious and helps to connect people. Have you ever smiled at someone only to have them smile back at you? Isn't that a great feeling? A study published in the Journal of Personality and Social Psychology found that women who smiled most often in their college yearbook picture lived happier lives, had happier marriages and had fewer personal setbacks. So, no matter how you're feeling or what's going on in your life, begin a daily ritual of smiling for happiness.

5. Take Time for Yourself

Some may think this is a selfish move, however, if you are not happy, healthy and whole, you are no good to anyone. The holidays are a time where many feel stressed out from all of the pressures and demands this time of the year brings. Therefore, it is important to take a little time for yourself to relax. The time you spend on you could make the difference in your well being and happiness. So, set aside some time for yourself, even if it's only 30 minutes a day. Take a relaxing bubble bath or read a funny or inspirational book. Find a quiet room where you will not be disturbed. If you have children, you may want to make time for yourself while the children are in school or at night after the children have gone to bed. Regardless of your schedule, be sure to incorporate some relaxing and quiet time just for you.

6. Eat Healthy and Exercise

It is important to recognize the importance of health and fitness to happiness. Research indicates there is a correlation between what you eat and how you feel. With the holidays upon us, you may find incorporating this strategy into your daily life more difficult than ever; however, it is doable. You can enjoy the holiday foods, just don't overindulge. It's important to realize that if you decide to have that second dessert, you may need to spend some extra time exercising to make up for it. Remember, health and fitness is important to the quality of your life.

Remember, happiness starts with you. It's about discovering who you are and what makes you happy. There are no guarantees in life and these strategies are not a cure all or a substitution for professional counseling. However, these strategies are designed to get you started in the change process that will hopefully have you well on your way to living a life of happiness. So, don't just read these strategies, incorporate them into your daily life to help bring you one step closer to living a more joyous and happy life.

Much success to you on your journey of a life of happiness.

Dr. Payne is President & CEO of C. Payne Consulting & Training, LLC, a professional services business specializing in consulting, training and coaching and dedicated to the success of its clients through empowerment. Dr. Payne is also a motivational speaker and writer and lives in Gold Canyon, Arizona. Dr. Payne would love to hear from you and can be reached at 480-390-7232 or via email at drcami@cpayneconsulting.com.