One of the most popular quotes about happiness comes from author, Stanley Gordon West, “Smile and the world smiles with you, cry and you cry alone.” Moreover, you can choose to be happy, despite the trials and tribulations that will spring-up in your life. You may just find your inner happy by following these four simple steps.

Up and Down, Again

Helen Keller said, “Everything has its wonders, even darkness and silence, and I learn, whatever state I may be in, therein to be content.” And, the Merriam-Webster dictionary defines happiness as the state of being happy. So, who is right? My guess is they both are.

Delving into the Specifics

1. Many people are not optimists by nature. But, by being an optimist you may be more happier, than if you were a pessimist. How can I have a more optimistic outlook on life? To begin with, you can develop the habit of seeing the positive side to situations; recognize negative thoughts as you have them and counterattack your thoughts with a positive reaction. While it’s a given that certain situations will occur that is beyond our control, we don’t have to let these circumstances dictate our entire outlook on life. This is where the seeing the glass as half full may work to your advantage.

2. No matter how great or small, we all were put on this earth to fulfill a mission, therefore, we have a purpose. Plus, those who have a sense of purpose sometimes are more content than those who don’t. How do I develop a sense of purpose? Simply strive to align your daily activities with the purpose of your life, as well as the long-term meaning of your life. Here’s to finding and fulfilling your passion.

3. Some believe that happiness is contagious. So, surround yourself with people who are genuinely happy. Both family and friends can play a role in your happiness. Why? Friends and family can help you stay grounded, along with helping you to celebrate life’s successes and support you through your perceived failures. Just be sure to let your supporters know how much you appreciate them, by reiterating that you are grateful for what they bring to the table in terms of contributing to your life.

4. Whoever coined the phrase, “Rome wasn’t built in a day” had it right. Multitudes of people will have to put a little extra effort into finding their happiness. This means practice is in order. As you are practicing on unearthing your happiness remember that a key aspect to happiness is making the correct choices, having the right thoughts and following through with the best actions for you.

As Time Goes On

There isn’t a person among the living who does not experience insurmountable odds from time-to-time. Life does not come with an instruction manual and not everyone knows that unhappiness can be turned into happiness; true happiness comes from within. Finally, there are many more ways that you can get to happy, faster.

Web Links:

–http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/how-to-be-happy/MY01357;

–http://www.goodreads.com/quotes/152160-smile-and-the-world-smiles-with-you-cry-and-you;

–http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/how-to-be-happy/MY01357/NSECTIONGROUP=2;

–http://www.brainyquote.com/quotes/topics/topic_happiness.html;

–http://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/happiness

-Kimberly Williams