The longest, most primary relationship we will ever have is with ourselves. We are often the most critical, cruel, uncaring and neglectful in this relationship than in any other. We would never treat our loved ones, coworkers or acquaintances the way we treat ourselves. If we did, they would leave…
Category: Tools to Increase Happiness
Embrace the New
Life changes all day every day. We are not the same person we were yesterday. We are changed by our daily experiences. If we are observant we can be even more affected by everyday situations and interactions. When we focus on seeing the positive each day we start to train…
Wishing Things Were Different
How many times in life do we wish things were different? We tell ourselves if this one aspect was not present life would be so much easier. Video games, or any sort of activity with increasing levels of difficulty keep us engaged because the game gets increasingly harder. We also increase…
Appreciation
The attitude of appreciation can really improve our lives greatly. When we focus on what is going right, we really have much to see. Perhaps think of it this way, if you see something that doesn’t emit uncomfortable feelings, focus on it for 10-20 seconds. Recognizing it brings joy and…
Celebrating Where You Are
We humans tend to look at life through the lens of problem solving, especially when we are not happy. We focus on what is not right in an effort to fix or change it so we may become happier. This well meaning process can lead to further frustration and pain.This…
Adjusting to Change
Weather changes, seasons change, relationships change, life in general changes. We humans like to feel like we have control over our world. When things change that are not according to our plans it reminds us how little control we really have. We will be constantly disappointed if we keep expecting…
Making the Mundane Fun!
Games are fun, right? When you find yourself waiting in line, waiting at a stop light, at work or other places your life takes you, play a game. When waiting in line, think of a movie/TV star whose name begins with the letter A, then B and so on until…
Making Happiness a Habit
It seems like we get to living life and forget to be happy. When something is troubling us we have a hard time thinking of anything else. It is almost as if we continuously remind ourselves of the thoughts we have been ruminating on and seek to continue the pattern….
Being Patient
How many times in life have we experienced circumstances that felt awful? A break up with a loved one, the loss of a job, a medical crisis and so on. Avoiding judgement when the situation is unfolding can stave off much suffering. A good example of this concept is in…
It was Painful at the Time
Some events are painful as they are happening yet, upon reflection, are valuable lessons. Some of the best lessons come from painful experiences, especially if you have some stubborn in you like me. I like to believe that the more painful the situation the better the lesson. This has a…