Happiness is something that comes from within. If we spend our time looking for it outside of ourselves – in things, places, accomplishments, or in another person – we will always be searching. We’ll never reach that place of contentment and fulfillment.
So, how do we create happiness, and how does being in a relationship affect that sense of joy? I strongly believe that happiness – true happiness – begins with gratitude. It begins by seeing all that you already have, the blessings that fill your life, and allowing yourself to really experience the feeling of gratitude. Does that mean that you just have to “settle” for what you currently have? Does living in gratitude mean that you don’t continue to dream, to reach, and to grow? No! It just means that you acknowledge what already is, express gratitude for it, and, in doing so, attract and allow more of what is good to come to you, playing your part by taking actions consistent with what it is you want.
And, now, what about relationships? Most people want a happy, loving, intimate relationship. So, of course, that means that you would have someone there with you, experiencing and creating the happiness with you, right? Perhaps the best way to explain it is thinking of your partner’s role in your happiness as “the bonus.” He adds, contributes to, and enhances the happiness that is already yours. When we are happy, we attract more happiness. So it stands to reason that, when you already are experiencing joy in your life, you naturally attract someone who (1) recognizes the joy in you, (2) is attracted to that spirit of joy, (3) and sees himself as capable of adding to that joy! See, the joy you radiate is what has him notice you in the first place!
So, take some time today to experience joy. Even if there is some sadness in your heart… Even if, right now, you know your life is not exactly where you’d like it to be. Just take a few moments, and notice the blessings and miracles that already surround you. Then just sit with them for a bit and allow yourself to experience gratitude and just feel the happiness filling your heart. As you go about your day, hold onto that feeling and radiate it in your speaking and way of being and allow joy to seize you!
Share your moments of happiness with us! We love to hear from you!
Photo credit: Franchesca Rullan of FCPR Studios
Love how you bring out that what people are searching for starts within them. Great post.
Thanks, Jean! 🙂 Too often, we’re looking outside ourselves when the answers are within us! Isn’t that great news? 🙂
Yes! Joy is within. And gratitude is a wonderful way to feel that inner joy. But when I have a tough time feeling grateful, I’ll often go for one of my power walks by the lake. I throw on my iPod with healing music and make sure to take in the beauty and greet everyone who crosses my path. I literally come back a new person & grateful!
What a great example of taking creating your happiness into your own hands — and then sharing it with others! Inspiring! Thank you, Louise!
I am such a believer in appreciating what I have now, instead of what I don’t have. And I love to take gratitude walks, too. It’s such a wonderful way to shift our feelings into a good place. Thanks so much for the reminder about our relationships and how they connect with our inner joy.
Thanks for your comment and encouraging words, Becci! I think that you and Louise have just inspired me to start taking gratitude walks! Thanks for the wonderful idea!