Happiness ’26
“Top 15 Things Money Can’t Buy. Time. Happiness. Inner Peace. Integrity. Love. Character. Manners. Health. Respect. Morals. Trust. Patience. Class. Common sense. Dignity.” Roy T. Bennett
This week’s conversation is about happiness and whilst I realise that we cannot be happy all the time, there are things we can do to promote this more.
Interestingly, I have now read and seen this in the past few days as I write this piece. On the weekend, I saw an author on the morning television show who was launching his book (unfortunately I did not grab his name or that of the book). He stated that by practicing being grateful – increases the ability to find happiness. I am also reading another book at present, written by Jonathon Moran and Dr Jodie Lowinger “Mental as Anyone”. The current chapter written by Jodie “Your toolkit for self-esteem”, in which it was mentioned that being grateful can help shift your focus to what is good in your world. She also mentioned to ensure that you surround yourself with a supportive and uplifting community, people who celebrate your strengths.
As I was reading this morning, this chapter reinforced the ideal of the five people closest to you, either lift you up or suck the energy from you. Another favourite author, Sam Cawthorn also added in a similar quote “Be careful who you choose”. A reminder that we all have moments of indecision or when life goes pear shaped, however, we can always choose a different path or moments to reflect on.
Even the most positive people in the world, look to the negative when life goes in a downward or spiralling shift. This has kept humans safe for many years. The main difference is that a more positive person, or one who can look at both the strengths and weaknesses of a situation – will bounce back quicker.
Completing further research has also highlighted other habits we can utilise to promote a happier, healthier and more fulfilling life. Obviously the first two discussed, gratitude and the prioritising and nurturing of relationships are very important. Other habits that need to be implemented are exercise or movement of the body, good sleep patterns, mindfulness and meditation, helping others, goal setting, self-compassion, lifelong learning, self-care and having animals are also key to the promotion of happiness.
What really resonates with me, is that many of these activities are not expensive and whilst time is a resource, we all can afford the time and this investment into our health and wellbeing, and that also includes our happiness overall.
Are you investing in increasing your ability to be happier?