Each of us has a personal perspective and our own path to happiness. What makes one individual’s happiness differs in as many ways as there are individuals. The first step is to know what makes you happy, and that is no easy task. However, this period of self-isolation certainly gives one the time to try and figure it out.
Table of Contents
Don’t Obsess over Things You Can’t Control
The Greatest Wealth Is Health – An Important Note to Our World: We can’t buy health, no one can. Instead of wishing to be out of this quarantined world, as I keep seeing on social media postings, be grateful for your health. Stay safe and be strong. We can daydream, but let’s be in the now. Be in the moment. Focus on what you can control, rather than what you can’t.
Mantra for Happiness: 7 Ways to Create Your Own
The Happiness Path
“In every walk with nature one receives far more than he seeks.” ~ John Muir
I am in complete bliss when walking in nature. It’s a great form of exercise for your body, health, and mindset. If you follow me closely on Instastories on Instagram, you know I share my daily walk with Mother Nature.
The above quote from John Muir: It’s so true! One day on my walk, I was gifted with the birds singing and dancing. They will sing and dance for you, too. I hope you are able to get out and enjoy the show. If that’s not possible for you, perhaps virtually? Try with Google Earth, which has launched 31 online tours of some of the world’s most beautiful parks. The photography is stunning. Check it out here.
Sow Some Seeds of Happiness (Literally)
“To plant a garden is to believe in tomorrow.” ~ Audrey Hepburn
The key to happiness begins with you
What puts a smile on your face? For me, it’s seeing beautiful vibrant fresh flowers. I haven’t tended to my gardens for the past 10 years due to my busy travel schedules. Well, I’m happy to be back on my deck and gardening this season.
Gardening is very therapeutic. I love seeing the birds and butterflies visiting my floriculture. As I sat on my deck with my coffee cup, it was quite hypnotic to take in the view of Mother Nature and the birds chirping away. I can’t remember the last time I took in this moment of serenity in my own backyard. Be sure to enjoy the moments of your down time.
Bonus tip: Add a few vegetables and herbs to your garden this season to avoid frequent grocery shopping. If you can’t have your own garden, perhaps partake in a community garden. Of course, remember to still practice physical distancing.
Give a Little, Receive Lots More
“You may say I’m a dreamer
But I’m not the only one
I hope someday you’ll join us
And the world will be as one”
~ John Lennon
With our current world health situation, it is quite tough to keep a healthy mindset. How do we comfort our feelings and emotions?
Fostering and giving are keys to happiness. You can give your time, energy, ideas, or just be there emotionally. Don’t we all feel happier when we have meaning and purpose in our lives? We are happier and feel more in control and get more out of what we are able to contribute.
In addition to planning your future trips, ask yourself what happiness means or what does happiness look like to you? Who knows, maybe your travel destinations will change after the opportunity for self-reflection. Wherever your thinking takes you, make your want-to-do list and tackle it. You may never get a chance like the one this pandemic-induced isolation has brought.
Always, look for what is wonderful in life. Practice gratitude and appreciate the little things. Consider this an open invitation to give to others. Give your time and support others financially if you are able to do so. You’ll be so happy you did.
Nourish your body
Make sure to eat healthy for your body and immune system. I used to eat sweet snacks but have been snacking more on fruits and vegetables. Make healthy food choices! It makes a difference.
Look Deeper than the Eye Can See
“The eye should learn to listen before it looks.” ~ Robert Frank
Interesting quote. We have so much more time with our camera these days. I actually can enjoy it now versus running from destination to photo shoots and back again. Recently, I was able to share beautiful blooms from my hometown. As far as listening, follow the birds chirping. Follow the wind for a beautiful Chance of Cherry Blossom flurries.
Actually, we needed to add video to this quote. Believe me, your audience will enjoy following along your journey virtually. The audience will appreciate your positive share of our beautiful world. Even if it is a short escape.
If you have the iPhone 11 Pro, the video camera is quite handy in capturing quite some gems.
This quote pretty much sums up what I think: “Photography is a love affair with life.” ~ Burk Uzzle
Music Makes the World Go Around
I am working on my iTunes library for those future long-haul airline trips to exotic destinations. Put your wishes into actions. If you believe in vision boards, start painting. Maybe you are more the journaling type, then start writing. The point is that now is the time to cultivate your dreams. There’s no reason to wait for an All Clear button. Start where you are with what you have.
“The deeper we look into nature the more we recognize that it is full of life, and the more profoundly we know that all life is a secret, and we are all united to all this life.” — Albert Schweitzer
This time is perfect for reflecting on Albert Schweitzer’s words. We are all in this together, and, hopefully, we will all come out of this together. Enjoy your quarantine time. We will recover from this period of duress. We will even be stronger, kinder and healthier. Be well everyone.
I leave you with the lyrics to a favorite song of mine.
John Hiatt Lyrics
“Have A Little Faith In Me”
When the road gets dark
And you can no longer see
Just let my love throw a spark
And have a little faith in me
And when the tears you cry
Are all you can believe
Just give these loving arms a try
And have a little faith in me
And
Have a little faith in me
Have a little faith in me
Have a little faith in me
Have a little faith in me
When your secret heart
Cannot speak so easily
Come here darlin’
From a whisper start
To have a little faith in me
And when your back’s against the wall
Just turn around and you will see
I will catch, i will catch your fall baby
Just have a little faith in me
Well, I’ve been loving you for such a long time girl
Expecting nothing in return
Just for you to have a little faith in me
You see time, time is our friend
‘Cause for us there is no end
And all you gotta do is have a little faith in me
I said I will hold you up, i will hold you up
Your love gives me strength enough
So have a little faith in me
