The Happiness Factor

Seems that in these times of economic crisis people are always looking for and interested in information about getting and / or staying happy. I have been a student of the search for several years now. I have come to the conclusion that I can find it and have it whenever I need to, although sometimes it is a bit more difficult to sustain. Especially in these times that we find ourselves in, where we must tighten our budgets and learn to work and live in new ways etc.

Slate magazine has been publishing a series on the search for and what the myths are about happiness.

The series is interesting and makes for a good read. There are things that I agree with as well as not. They do not believe that spending time alone can make you happy. I disagree. Some of the best time that I have spent has been time that I have been alone and devoted to my personal interests. Reading and writing are two things that really are best when done alone. A few years back when I made the move to do these things on a regular basis I feel that I greatly enhanced my happiness level. It still works to this day.

I definitely agree with the idea that a "treat" can cheer you up! Sometimes just a cup of coffee or a lipstick can make my day go from grey to sunny. I have been know to become quite ecstatic at the purchase and use of a new razor!! It can make one quite giddy.

I have also found that when I am happier I attract a better attitude from those around me, especially at work. When I am happier my family is happier. I guess it is a circle.

In these times it can be very difficult. There are things that seem to try our patience at every corner. Finding the rainbow or silver lining can be tedious at best. In my experience it may take some time to find that one thing, or the many things, that can work for you. The day I began to journal was the beginning for me. It also became the best outlet ever! I really look forward to those days.

Not to say that I don't have my dark days or times, but they are becoming much shorter in duration. I have found several things that work for me and I will quickly go to them. With the world wide web at our finger tips it is easy to find the things that can work for you. Your pot of gold at then end of the rainbow.

Weekend Potpourri

Much like my pal, Mixter, it has been a few days since I last posted. I have been trying to avoid the news. I have felt a bit of a depression coming on and most of it is due to the economic news and current political climate. It is just not good.

So, this morning I decided to read about most anything that is totally unrelated to the economy. I have been reading every bit of fluff. Also working on Facebook. Something that I really never wanted, nor intended to do, but find that it is a nice mindless diversion. If you believe what CNN had to say about meeting people/friends on Facebook it seems to be a good/popular way to connect. Although they do say that those who are married or in a relationship can mess things up.

I only ever got on Facebook so I could hit up Mixter on her page. Then someone at work stumbled upon my page and from there I now have about a dozen friends hitting me up daily! I then felt that I had to add photos and other stuff just so it would not look so stupid or like I am not that savvy. It seems sometimes juvenile, but like I stated earlier, I am looking for mindless diversion. I can get on and see what people are doing, a friend from work just got a baby hedgehog, cute. I can see someone else's wedding pictures. I was able to post the pictures of John and I in our Snuggies.

Those of us that have ever had to deal with men who get laid off from their jobs are all too aware of the items that Newsweek has pointed out. It is nothing new to read that men basically define themselves by their ability to provide and when they can't EVERYONE"S stress level gets elevated. Not to mention that they are not exactly to be counted on to do much house work!

Spent the morning drinking coffee and watching a great show on Discovery channel. C alled Sunrise Earth. If you love the sounds of the ocean and a beautiful sunrise to begin your day you should check out this site/show. They are an hour long and you can wake up slowly in a non alarming way. They go to some fantastic sites to film. All around the world.

The rest of the day plans seem to include a few items at the store, like milk on sale for 1.99 and dog food, and then maybe some wine and basketball tonight. The Cavaliers are just an amazing team this year and too much fun to watch!! Another great diversion.

I just finished reading Denis Leary's great book and highly recommends it. "Why We Suck". Not for anyone who is too into political correctness. A great, and humorous, diversion.

I have also been looking to a very wide variety of Internet articles, blogs and web sites. Mixter has a huge assortment of links on her blog that are well worth a stop and read. Anything that is of either intellectual value or personal improvement is where I am looking. Just another good way to take your mind away from that which can take you down or depress you.

So, I hope that you enjoy your weekend, coffee and browsing!! Take the time and divert yourself!!