Holding on to Your Happiness :)

It is not how much we have, but how much we enjoy, that makes happiness. ~ Charles Spurgeon

My first year out of the military was strange, to say the least. I needed to discover a new way of living outside my typical norm. As a civilian, I don't have to shave every day, nor do I have to run miles to remain in tip-top shape. Though I embrace cardio as a means of staying healthy, it's not an occupational requirement like it was in the NAVY. Working out is something I choose to do; I enjoy it, and it makes me happy!

Charles Spurgeon said it best: "It is not how much we have, but how much we enjoy, that makes happiness." You see, happiness isn't a goal or a destination; it is the byproduct of embracing moments and matters that make us smile. Happiness isn't predicated on ideal external conditions. If that were so, none of us would have it. Just think about it: with so much calamity around us, who would be happy?

If your happiness was taken away by circumstances, perhaps you invested too much in the external. Maybe you put too much stock into flawed humans, and you allowed their actions to hurt you deeply. Consequently, you were stripped of your happiness, impacting your worldview. Whatever the case may be, if this applies to you, I urge you to regain your smile.

According to research, Dr. Earlexia Norwood, MD, notes children smile an average of 400 times per day, compared to the average happy adult who smiles 40-50 times per day and the typical adult who smiles only 20 times per day. As we age, we smile less. Let's commit to reversing this narrative for the sake of happiness. Below are 5 reasons to keep your smile charged and ready:

• Positive Feedback Loop: Smiling triggers the brain to release neurotransmitters like dopamine and serotonin, which are associated with feelings of happiness and well-being. By smiling more often, you create a positive feedback loop, reinforcing feelings of happiness and sustaining positivity over time.
• Uplifts Our Mood: Smiling, even when you don't feel like it initially, can actually improve your mood. It sends signals to your brain that you're happy, leading to the release of endorphins, which act as natural mood lifters.
• Smiling Radiates Positivity: A smile is a universal sign of positivity and warmth. When you maintain a smile, you radiate positivity to those around you, creating a ripple effect. Your upbeat demeanor can uplift others' spirits and contribute to a more positive and harmonious environment.
• Smiling Cultivates Gratitude: Smiling is often associated with gratitude and appreciation for life's blessings. By embracing a smiling attitude, you cultivate a mindset of gratitude, focusing on the positive aspects of your life rather than dwelling on negatives.
• Smiling Attracts Positive Experiences: People are naturally drawn to those who exude positivity and happiness. When you maintain a genuine smile, you attract more positive experiences and opportunities into your life. Whether it's forming new friendships, achieving personal goals, or finding joy in everyday moments, a smiling disposition can open doors to greater happiness.

In conclusion, life presents numerous opportunities for us to feel dismay or anger. However, in the midst of these challenges, there is also ample reason to express gratitude. I urge you to set a daily objective of embracing happiness. Make a commitment to your smile in a such a way that your days are rejuvenated.

:)