We all want to be happy, right? So – are you? Is your overriding mood one of happiness and contentment, or do you find yourself feeling down or just dissatisfied on a regular basis? It’s time to fix that! The first thing you must realise is that happiness is a choice – your frame of mind influences your entire experience, and if you have a negative outlook it is extremely hard to live a positive life. When you understand this, you can begin to change your perception and greatly improve your levels of overall and day to day enjoyment and satisfaction.

The first thing you must do is  decide  to be happy. Become a ‘glass half-full’ person and think positive thoughts. When you wake up each morning, go over what you have to look forward to that day. Consider all of the things that are good in your life. What do you have to be thankful for? What do you love doing? Cherish the little things that give you a simple boost of happiness – fresh flowers, cups of tea, the smell of mown grass, your favourite song. Whatever it is, embrace it! Being happy not only enhances your own life in obvious ways, but also spreads and attracts joy.

Importantly, you must also learn to let go of negativity – negative thoughts, comments, and experiences must go. Accept that these things have happened, then let them go. You are never going to come through life without experiencing a few unpleasant situations or meeting a few people who upset you. The key is to not take these things too seriously – realise that it is a choice to let them affect you, and you can move forward simply by making the conscious decision to do so. Remember also that there is always a silver lining. Maybe you are going through a difficult time at the moment. Have you thought about the good that can come from this experience? Has it taught you a valuable life lesson, or inspired you in some way?

Last but not not least, fill your life with things that make you happy. Share your time with people who enhance your life, not those who bring you down. Do the things you are passionate about and love doing – maybe that’s a sport, an instrument, or some other skill. Wear whatever makes you feel good, allow yourself to have treats now and then, and listen to songs that put you in a fabulous mood. When you are at work or doing chores, lighten the mood by decorating your environment with photographs, art or plants – things that inspire you. Your life is your own, and it should be enjoyed. Make your happiness a priority and your whole world will change.