Long-term happiness isn’t about external events. It starts from within and most importantly, it’s a skill that can be learned and developed. And you can begin today to cultivate your own happiness. Begin by acknowledging that in order to live your best life, you need to realize that happiness doesn’t happen to you—it happens because of you. That doesn’t mean if you do all the right things you’ll feel happy all the time. No one feels happy all the time. It just means your choices influence how you feel, and if you make healthy choices, choices that are in alignment with your inner self, you’ll most likely feel good more often than not. Today, begin to plant the seeds for the happiness that you have been seeking from outside yourself. Begin by looking for the silver lining in every situation because it's there, maybe you can't understand right now through your pain, but there is a lesson in every experience. Next, stop comparing yourself to other people. It's easy to do but it will eat away at your well being and prevent you from feeling happy. You and I are unique and were meant to be that way. Next, you must take full responsibility for your feelings and your life. No one in reality can make you feel anyway-good, bad or indifferent. Finally, stop complaining and stop being an active participant in other people's problems. Today, don’t leave your happiness in the hands of chance and external circumstances. Instead, take charge and cultivate happiness from the inside out.

8612627fccd0750ebf3763252d9eec41--louise-hay-affirmations-daily-affirmations.jpg

Just for today, I choose happiness. I gladly get rid of thoughts and beliefs that I no longer need so that new ones can take their place. In the process, I experience much joy and happiness. I recognize that there is no competition or comparison, for we are all different and are meant to be that way. I am special and wonderful. I reclaim my power and create the life I desire. I am safe and out of this situation only good will come. And so it is.