I envision the path to happiness as a road through the desert, in July. The heat radiates off the asphalt, so I am unsure of just how far the road stretches off into the distance. Of course, this is my vision, so the road is as long — or short — as I want it to be.
With my mind, I create oases and mountains that provide shade. I create happiness.
I am in control of my happiness because happiness is perceived. Happiness is a goal always within grasp, though many perceive it to be at the end of the road. However, I avoid waiting for the end of the road. I place happiness among my belongings and carry it with me during my travels.
By maintaining a positive outlook, searching for the good in things, and reinforcing my well-being, my happiness grows within. I begin to feel optimistic. I discover that happiness affects my recognition of success.
When I am happy, I succeed in every challenge I undertake. Life is easier, people are nicer, and each obstacle appears smaller.
Today, I intend to share my perspective on happiness with others. Instead of being a goal to work toward, I realize that happiness is actually a tool I can use to achieve my goals. I have stopped striving to be happy. I simply am.
Self-Reflection Questions:
1. What helps me to maintain a positive mental outlook?
2. What type(s) of happiness does success bring?
3. Who and/or what influences my well-being?
I lead by example to help others make positive choices.
Everyone has an opportunity to lead by example. I choose to be a positive example! People follow my lead and make better choices because of me.
Being a good example doesn’t mean being perfect. No one makes the right decisions all the time. I allow myself to be human and make mistakes.
However, I strive to be my best. I always want to be stronger and better. I continuously work to improve and find great joy in the process. Each day, I try to set a better example for others.
If I am happy with myself, I am doing the right thing. I avoid doing things that don’t feel right or that don’t make me happy. I do what feels joyous to me because it causes me to radiate that joy out to others. When others see my happiness, they want to follow my example.
Each day, I am an example for someone who crosses my path. I am a good example of joy and peace. Others appreciate what I have to offer. They want to be like me because they see the happiness I radiate.
No matter what crosses my path, I cultivate peace within myself. I show others how I handle challenges in positive ways. Challenges can be good opportunities and I demonstrate how to learn and grow from them.
Today, I am the best I can be so others can follow my lead.
Self-Reflection Questions:
1. What makes me a good example?
2. How can I use my own growth to help others be their best?
3. How can I lead by example?
If you’d like a free digital copy of my “Happiness Journal” that I’ve created to help us, as we go through this subject, you can get it from here.
Roy Clayton