Write a list of all the things that give you happiness, or everyday remember one thing that made you happy that day.
It is thought that for your life to have meaning it will undoubtedly be intertwined with stress because those aspects that you fear losing the most are the very things that mean the most to you, and therefore also provide you with not only happiness but stress too.
The trick…. The quick fix….
Teach yourself to see the good, the happiness, the silver lining. Why? Because it’s worth YOUR smile! And here’s but a few…. Pictures paint a thousand words!
…. Or do they? Like Facebook, not a true reflection of reality!
- Organising events: My sons 3rd birthday party. I cried singing happy birthday as all the stress and effort of organising entertainment, food, and trying to impress 3yr olds so that they all had a wonderful time got on top of me. However, he enjoyed himself despite 3yr old politics and the happiness of not only my little boy, but my family and friends was so worth it.
- Work: Leadership and management at work is a bit of a double edged sword, wanting to help all but knowing not everyone will be happy with decisions and then convincing all to follow with enthusiasm… Tricky!
- Necessary jobs: Trying to get round the shops… Food flying out the trolley quicker than it goes in, ooh yoghurts, splat. Who can’t smile at that yoghurt face though?! Plus playing hide and seek in the clothes shops is actually quite fun 😄
- Pets: My pups. So much unconditional love and affection not to mention separation anxiety and tearing up the house, toilet training, clearing up the garden mess and carrying full poo bags round the walk 😖
- Travelling: Getting across the Atlantic with a 1yr old to see Grandad… tantrums, hot flushes, minimal sleep, spillages, wet pants and that was just me!
- Days out: They always end in fond memories and smiles, like going to the beach… but, the sand gets everywhere! The dogs in all directions, falling in the water (in winter), the wind…. sudden melt down and trying to get everyone and all paraphernalia to the car 5 mins ago.
- Firsts: People forget you have to teach children EVERYTHING (somethings they copy so this is taken for granted). Therefore, don’t forget every first can be a challenge if your mindset isn’t prepared. First park walk or cinema trip…. Exciting for 5 mins, won’t wear the 3D glasses, leaning over chairs in front, stand up sit down x 1000, toilet x20…. What did we go to see?
- Eating: buying, preparing and treating healthy food for my growing boy, hard working husband and myself is a constant battle against advertising and availability of empty calorie food that tastes so good…. Explain it to a 3yr old!
- Relationships: battling through the list above with/ without, jointly/ separately, and together/ against your partner just to add to the joy or stress of it all!
May be go for a short walk, find a peaceful spot, review your camera roll or find it at the bottom of a “cup tea”. Just don’t forget, in all of these situations and pictures, was true joy and happiness and a cuddle to end the day….Focus on that bit!
Action Architects 