Today I challenge you to be happy!
Now I’m not talking about just putting a smile on your face, or thinking happy thoughts. No. I want you to BE happy! No matter what happens today, challenge yourself to be happy. If its raining outside, then dance in the rain. If you’re late for work, then skip around the office like you’re not. Happiness is infectious. Infect someone with a smile, laughter, or hugs.
Yes, I know this all sounds a tad bit cray cray. And you’re probably thinking you’re not going to do this because everyone will think you have a mental illness. But if you take this challenge, I guarantee at least for a portion of your day you will not feel unhappy.
You might be wondering how this is going to work. Here are three ways you can execute this challenge successfully:
- Turn every negative into a positive
Anything negative that happens to you, turn it around into a positive thing. So what if you’re late for work; that just gives everyone else a head start to catch up to you since you’re always ahead of them. Aww, you stubbed your toe in the door frame; well now you get to wear those cute new sandals you bought 😉 See how easy that was! A positive outlook creates real value in your life and helps you to build skills that last much longer than a smile.
- Laugh out loud (even when there’s nothing funny)
Laugh at yourself. Laugh loudly. Laugh for no reason at all. Who cares if everyone looks at you like you’ve lost your marbles? Laugh and point at them because they are not laughing. That’ll show them! Laughter increases your endorphins, and reduces pain and stress.
- Be mindful
Take a page from the book of a child. Notice how resilient kids are. One second they will cry, and the very next second they are laughing hysterically. Being mindful, is like being a kid, who lives in the ‘here and now,’ is fascinated by everything around him/her, and is always curious. Practicing mindfulness helps to alleviate a variety of mental and physical conditions.
There’s no way you can do any of these three things and not be happy while doing them. Will you take the challenge today?
Be Mindful. Stay Curious.