We are all living life, trying to find a balance and searching for happiness. Here are some things I’ve learned to do in order to be happy.

1. Make the best of everything. Whatever happens in life, it could be worse. So make the best of it.
2. Love yourself. Sometimes we are so busy taking care of others that we forget about ourselves. You need to be full in order to take care of your loved ones.
3. Put your electronics away. You need to take a break from all the distractions. You are more likely to find your happy place when you are focused.
4. Live in the now. Yesterday’s a memory, tomorrow is a mystery and today is a gift. Which is why it’s called the present.
5. Faith. I have gone through so many ups and downs in my life, just like all of you, my faith has carried me through my toughest times. I’m thankful that I believe in a higher power.
6. Help others. Do something every day to help someone else. It doesn’t have to be big, even a smile is an act of charity, you never know how it may impact someone’s day.
7. Be grateful. Practicing gratitude will help you see all that you have, instead of focusing on what you don’t have.
8. Meditate. Take a few minutes every day to sit in quiet contemplation . There are so many guided meditation apps that will make it easy to do. Meditation allows you to clear your mind and relieves stress.
9. Diet & Exercise. Eating clean and moving your body is healthy for both your body and your mind. Having a healthy diet will give you more energy and exercise releases endorphins that make you feel good.
10. Find a creative outlet. Do something that you are passionate about, or learn something new. It keeps you balanced.
11. Surround yourself with positive people. It’s much easier to be happy with people who see the glass half full. And no negative talk, that means no negative self talk either.
12. Set goals. Having goals helps you grow and learn and it keeps you on your toes.
13. Travel. When you travel you learn so much about people and cultures. Travel allows you to see that we are more alike than we are different.
14. Create a community. Keep in touch with your family, aunts, uncles, cousins. Most of my cousins are my best friends. They are a link to your history. Cherish your friends, especially your long friendships, those die hard, steadfast friends are keepers! I’m so blessed to have both old and new friends that I adore. Relationships take communication, time and love. I hope you have people in your life that think you are worthy of their time, because you deserve it.

I wish you happiness.