By Mary Kay Buttery –

Some people are lucky enough to possess genes that foster happiness. However, happiness can be a matter of choice, not just luck.

The happiest of people don’t necessarily have the best of everything; they just make the most of everything that comes along their way! There is a glow about them. They are confident in who they are. To them life is a pleasure and an adventure. They aren’t simply trying to be happy; they truly are!

David Lykken, whose name in Norwegian, means “the happiness” noted that “certain thought patterns and interpersonal skills definitely help people become an epicure of experiences”. Take a group of happy people and you will probably come across some or all of the following attributes.

They Can Navigate Through A Current
Sometimes life happens, and the best made plans are laid to rest. However when one falls into a pattern of constantly making excuses, even if only to oneself, it will eventually make an impression on an individuals dynamics, success or happiness. Happy people are adept at taking life in hand. So ultimately life works for them, not against them! This is commonly referred to as “Living In the Flow”.

When something is important, make time even if for just a few minutes. And soon it won’t even have to be considered – it will just happen!

They are Attentive of the Influences Surrounding Them
The people who surround us, the books we read, the entertainment we view – all set a tone or quality to our experience and are forecasters of how happy we feel. Happy people pinpoint then give precedence to rewarding and satisfying aspects in their life. Situations charged with “melodrama” aren’t given influence, so they fall to the wayside.

They “Milk” their Assets
Happy people use their personal strengths to get things done. Everyone possesses unique assets. And we each have different talents and skill sets. So why not use them to ones advantage!

Blind since infancy, Stevie Wonder exploited his sense of hearing and his passion for music. He has 25 Grammy Awards and is a master in his field. Best known as the creator of the Harry Potter fantasy series, J.K Rowling started writing at the age of six. She has also become a notable philanthropist, supporting a variety of charities.

They Abandon Delusions
If only I could—come upon a job that really suits me—meet my “perfect” match—get rid of these extra pound—life would be “perfect”. Happy people know better than to even go there!

People misjudge their contentment and can be overly critical of themselves when they put the limelight on one segment of their life. In one study, single subjects were asked, “How happy are you with your life in general?” and “How many dates did you have last month?” When the dating question was asked first, their romantic life weighed more heavily into how they rated their overall happiness than when the questions were reversed. Happy people are wise to this. They step back and take in the big picture, not just a sliver. If a few “kinks” are found here and there, they are dealt with, or are left to just “be”.

They Sift for An Appropriate Conclusion
The conclusion or outcome of any adventure can make a profound imprint on a person’s overall impression of their experience. If the outcome is equitable, the experience will naturally yield happiness. Happy people look at options that assist them to tie up loose ends and, if possible, conclude matters on a high note.

They Opt to Live Life – Full Out
As much as we all think we want to be happy, many of us have deep rooted beliefs that it’s wrong to be happy (or be too happy). This belief can stem from a religion, culture, or family dynamics and can leave one feeling guilty if they are having fun and are happy.

Research shows that happy people tend to be more open and willing to be of assistance to others. Happy people routinely carry out random acts of kindness without a lot of deliberation as it is inherent for them.

We are able, compassionate beings who are capable of not only giving but also receiving. Giving ourselves the high five and opening to it ALL (though our participation) thus enjoying the whole “enchilada”, would seem to be a very satisfying way to travel through life, as it insures a fulfilling existence.

Pleasures come in all forms. They appear here and there at coincidental moments. You reach into your pocket and find a $10 bill from the last time you wore these jeans. You aren’t rich, but you are richer than you were a second earlier. Welcoming these occasions will bring unexpected sprinkles of happiness throughout the day.

True happiness is priceless. It can’t be bought, and no one can hand it to us. It is part of the human experience, and it comes from within us. Just as soon as one makes the decision to be happy, regardless of their circumstances, it manifests.

Mary Kay is available for private consultations, speaking engagements, etc.. Be sure to visit her website and sign up for her *FREE* Monthly Newsletter, which is filled with inspirational, motivational and helpful information. Ignite your presence, and live in a whole new world of simplicity, ease and enjoyment. To contact her: call 702-239-5451 or e-mail  [mailto:mkb1929@gishpuppy.com]mkb1929@gishpuppy.com.

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