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Chapter 7 of Linda's Choosing Happiness book is titled "Letting Go"--but, currently, this is probably the most important step for me in my ongoing effort to live in happiness.
There was a pivotal moment my my life when I realized that my happiness was an internal choice. In spite of the outside circumstances, I could choose to be happy.....or choose to be miserable. I turned 40, the pieces of my life were not where I had envisioned, and extended family circumstances created daily chaos--and pain. Something had to change. Since I cannot control outside circumstances or the change the actions of others--I can only control my own actions and change my own responses to those things. I discovered the need to let go. Let go of the past. Let go of the guilt. Let go of the pain. Let go of the fear. I needed to let go so that my hands and heart were free to reach for happiness!
How do I remind myself that happiness is always within and
regain my footing in those whirlwind moments of life that can
throw us off balance? Each day presents new happiness challenges--with some days presenting many more than others. Each evening is a time to reflect on the day and refocus my energies toward the next day. Toward the future. I have not yet reached the point where I can "let go" during the day's moments--but, simply being able to focus my energy on letting go at the end of each day prevents a bad day from turning into a bad week....a depressing month...an unhappy life.
What is my personal definition of happiness today? Finding peace and reasons to smile amid chaos define happiness for me at the present. Our family's life is busy. It's hectic, stressful, and packed with less than perfect moments--but, each one of those moments happens for a reason. Each of those moments offers a lesson, brings an opportunity to learn or grow, and adds a piece to life's puzzle. Letting go of negativity, even if that "letting go" happens after the fact, returns peace to my days. My life is good--even when bad things happen.
What brings me happiness?
Peace. Peace does not necessarily mean quiet....just a lack of conflict. Conflict has a purpose in life. We need conflict to grow and change--but, I do not need constant conflict. I have zero tolerance for unnecessary drama. I have zero interest in creating conflict simply for conflict's sake. Surrounding myself with those who also limit unnecessary drama brings me peace.
A Purpose. We all have a purpose--and working toward goals and dreams helps us fill those purposes. I know that I have a purpose. Sometimes I lose sight of my myself in the grand scheme of the day--but, in the end, I can always let go of the less than perfect moments, reflect and realize that, even in chaotic situations, I was still serving a purpose to myself and my family.
Little things. Sometimes we get so focused on life's "big picture" that we lose sight of the many little things which really make our lives worth living. Every day is filled with little moments. Sometimes, I have to let go of the to-do list and look away from the window to the future to see them.
I am Choosing Happiness..
This is how I am currently choosing happiness. It seems like such a simple choice--but, the process is really not an easy one! Sometimes we all need motivation, support--and even some reminders--that it is okay to be happy. It is okay to choose happiness!
I
invite you to share how you are choosing happiness in the comments below.
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sure to check out Linda’s new book, Inspiration for a Woman’s
Soul: Choosing Happiness and grab your copy today at
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Disclaimer: I am participating in Linda Joy's Book Launch--but, was not compensated for my participation.
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