A Choice We Have to Make Everyday

In a recent conversation, someone was talking about wanting to be happy. I then asked them their definition of ‘happy’, and as they spoke about that they wanted to be happy it wasn’t what I would call a definition on happiness. It was more of a to do list or goal chart. Interestingly enough, after that conversation I found this Chinese Proverb and thought it made a very good point:

If you want happiness for an hour - take a nap. 
If you want happiness for a day - go fishing. 
If you want happiness for a year - inherit a fortune. 
If you want happiness for a lifetime - help someone else. 
 - Chinese Proverb

I often hear people talk about happiness, so I listen. I want to hear, to be sure I understand what they think happiness is before I chime in. As I let them wax on, most people eventually reach the point where they realize that are not really sure of their own definition of happiness. So when they say they want happiness, they don’t really know what that means…and especially what it means in their own life.

Some people want power, or position, or “things” that will make them feel happy. Some want a spouse, a home, children, to travel or even to reach their goals. Once they have what is on their list, THAT is when they will be happy. There are all sorts of definitions and “things” out there that everyone tells us will make us happy, yet does all that make us happy? How much stuff can be shove in our lives? How many activities can we do with the hope that we will be happy?

Then there are those who have broken the code. When you ask them their definition of happy, they really don’t have a list of things or activities, goals or needs…they ARE happy. And when you listen, REALLY LISTEN, they mention things like fulfillment, giving, caring, being thankful and appreciating what they do have in their life – something to do, somewhere to go, someone to love. The most happy people I know are great givers – time, resources, love, affections – they give it all, every day, it is a habit and choice they made long ago. THAT is why they are happy, because they are not chasing stuff or accolades, they are focused on helping someone else. They cherish the life they have built and appreciate everything that includes.

Let me encourage you to think about your own definition of happiness. When you are truly honest with yourself – really bare bones and digging deep – are you happy? There may be things you want to change in your life, cool! Without those things changing, are you happy? Can you go to bed giving thanks for what you do have and look forward to another day filled with blessings and life? Because like those happiness code crackers – the ones who are happy no matter their circumstances – they are able to understand the abundance they do have without being plagued by what they don’t have, they help others and bring joy to life – THOSE are the happiest people I know. Because in the end happiness is a choice, and it is a choice we have to make everyday…so today, choose to be happy!