Optimism ~
People who are optimistic, by definition feel happier about the future as
they assume things will be better than they likely will be, even in the
face of a negative past.

Contented ~
People who are not bothered by the past or future can also just be happy
in the present moment.
Worry about the future is a common creator of unhappiness, and stopping
worrying can give you a huge boost.

Humour ~
Those with a sense of fun and who can laugh, especially at themselves,
are generally happier.

Laughing at yourself implies a sound sense of security with a reduced
tendency to worry, which in turn contributes to happiness.

Achievement ~
People who challenge themselves, seeking to learn and achieve find pleasure
not only in reaching their goals but also in the struggle and focus to get there.

They often set both smaller and larger goals, enabling them to get a sense of
achievement in each of the little steps along the way to the greater joy of
achieving something significant.

Caring ~
People who are altruistic, caring for others and spending time helping them
often find great happiness in this. Caring for others gets you out of yourself
and stops you worrying.
Seeing others who are less fortunate than you can also provide motivation.

Integrity ~
Being true to yourself creates internal alignment and reduces inner conflict
that prevents you from being truly happy.
This helps to explain how caring works -- if you have an internal Values that
says 'caring is right', then by caring for others you increase internal alignment.

Gratitude ~
People who are grateful for their lot in life and who show gratitude towards
others for the things they receive have been found to be happier.
Notably, thanks can be found in many religious prayers.

Activity ~
When people keep busy they are often happier than those who slow down,
watch TV, surf the net and other less active things.

Activity reduces time for moping, adds interest and increases the chance of
meeting others and finding happiness in new areas.






Love Ya, ~Barbara