Those who know me well know that one of my favourite sayings is: ‘You may not be where you want to be right now, but you are not where you could be’. This basically means that we should take a bit more time to appreciate what we have now. The truth is that it has been a tough couple of years globally, but permit me to come with another phrase at this juncture as it is also true to say, ‘tough situations don’t last but tough people do’.
Whatever situation we find ourselves in, let us remain positive and believe that with perseverance, we will get there. Last week, I came up with an acronym from the word discipline. This week, I have come up with an acronym for a word I believe that we could all do with a bit more of – happiness. Find the meaning of the word happiness as follows.
H is for hope. There will be better days ahead; so, let us have hope and believe no situation is permanent.
A is for active. Keep yourself active. I am sure that you have heard the saying that the devil makes work for the idle. Therefore, it is important to keep yourself busy, especially in those activities that you know can help you get to where you want to go.
P is for plan. As the saying goes, ‘if you fail to plan, then you plan to fail’. So, plan for your future. Success doesn’t just happen.
P is for patience. We all need to be patient. At times things can seem to go in an opposite direction to what we have planned. Just continue and be patient enough to know that it will all work out in the end.
I is for insulate. Insulate yourself from any negativity. Try to surround yourself with positive words, experiences and people. Don’t take in the negative; be intentional about pushing the positive.
N is for nice. When you are nice to people, you get the same experiences back. Being nice can certainly help you to feel happy.
E is for encourage. Encourage yourself, encourage others and be encouraged.
S is for being sincere. When you are not feeling happy, reach out and tell someone. A problem shared is a problem halved. Always be true to yourself and, as mentioned, seek help if you need it.
S is for smile. It is a good form of therapy.
I hope you truly follow your happiness.
