Happiness is one of those magical things – both simple and complex at the same time. We work to achieve it, but also have a hard time putting a finger on exactly what it is.

Happiness is defined as the state of being happy. Which then begs us to ask what is happy? It is feeling or showing pleasure or contentment. It is also described as having luck or good fortune. But if that is the case, how can happiness be a choice? So many questions have swirled through my mind about this complicated topic. At some point in my life, it hit me…

Happiness is the feeling that comes over you when you know life is good and you can’t help but smile. It’s that simple! It’s the opposite of sadness. Happiness is a sense of well-being, joy, or contentment.

That in itself explains why happiness isn’t to be pursued (that pursuit can literally be endless). Happiness is to be decided.

Everyday I have to wake up and choose to be thankful for the life I live, to be at peace or content and joyful. The simple fact that we wake up in the morning is cause enough to smile. It’s not always easy. And I have my share of hard days. The kids aren’t always the most charming. I’ve suffered loss and both physical and emotional pain, but work to make an intentional effort to choose to be happy.

Ask yourself…

”Am I chasing happiness on an endless pursuit or am I making a conscious decision to be happy?” What will you choose today?

“Folks are usually about as happy as they make their minds up to be.” – Abraham Lincoln