Caught in the Moment

I realized today as I was sitting in my chair at the end of a Wednesday that I had not taken any time this week to think about my own mental health. Although it's a phrase that is often either overused or ignored, I feel there's a balance we all need to work on to find our version of happiness and peace. As everyone hopefully finds out eventually, happiness is not something that can be taken from others; it's something that we have to make for ourselves. We have to choose it. I realize it may seem superficial or cliche, but making a purposeful decision to find happiness in my daily life changes my daily decision-making paradigm. Instead of staying late every day at work, I may choose that certain tasks can be delayed or ignored so that I can engage in activities or rest that will encourage a happier me. I'm not talking about procrastination, but a purposeful decision to put myself in a position of importance. I tend to think of myself last, and often refrain from allowing myself healthy time because there's so much to do or to get done. When I take the time to think about what I need, I can make decisions that ultimately will allow me to get my tasks done faster and more efficiently. Purposeful happiness. Not from going out to clubs, buying new toys or clothes, and not from doing something adventurous, but happiness in the ordinary. I hope you're able to take today to make a purposeful decision to think about what you need to do in order to allow yourself the opportunity to choose happy in your life. It could be as simple as finishing the laundry that's been sitting on the chair for a week. Or maybe it's cooking a meal at home instead of going out again. Maybe a 30-minute nap or 20-minute jog. Maybe it's as simple as sitting in your chair and allowing yourself some thinking time without staring at your phone. Or even better, staying off social media for an hour. For me, it's writing, reading, going for a jog, or sitting on the patio listening to the birds. I do hope that you're able to find happiness in the ordinary today. Let me know what brings you a little dose of happiness so we can share!