photo by Pink Sherbet Photography
Every October The Nester invites bloggers to write about any topic they’d like for 31 days and I’m joining in this year. Our topic? 31 Days to a Happier YOU. Each day just show up here and we’ll talk about a little happiness tidbit. I’ll also share a practical way you can incorporate it into your life.
I didn’t choose this topic because I’m naturally a happy-go-lucky kind of girl. The opposite is actually true. I’ve struggled with depression and anxiety off and on most of my life. I’ve learned that if I want to be happier it takes a whole lot of work. So the last several years I’ve been researching, trying things out, and seeking insight about what it really means to be happy.
What I’ve discovered about happiness has changed my life, deepened my faith, and strengthened my relationships. I truly believe it will do the same for you. So let’s get started…
Happiness Principle 1: Happy isn’t selfish. Happy people are actually more likely to help people.
Women are wonderful givers. We’re there to offer a helping hand, lend an ear, or be a shoulder to cry on at a moment’s notice. This is a beautiful part of who we are. And yet when we give, give, give with the belief that anything else is selfish, we set ourselves up for burnout.
Author Gretchen Rubin says, “Studies show that happier people are more likely to help other people. They’re more interested in social problems. They do more volunteer work and contribute more to charity. Plus, as you’d expect, they’re less preoccupied with their personal problems.”
Over and over again, research has proven that the happier you are, the more likely you are to help others. So you don’t have to be afraid of trying to be happier. Not only will you benefit–everyone else around you will too.
Happiness Challenge 1: Intentionally do one small thing that makes you smile today.
XOXO
