It seems too simple, “Think happy thoughts and you’ll be happy.” So why don’t I do it? Why don’t we all do it? Imagine what the world would be like if we did.
Dr. Nancy’s article, “Finding Joy…” reminds me how fortunate I am. It’s true that I have a tendency to behave in the ways this article recommends. However, even naturally cheerful, optimistic people need a nudge now and then.
The biggest nudge this article gives me is to think “present tense.” Reading it carefully, there is nothing here that worries about tomorrow. It’s all about today. She advises us to think, “I’m going to be happy today.” She says to “ be grateful for what IS… be kind… savor every moment.”
Dr. Nancy may have discovered the true fountain of youth. All she had to do was open my eyes so I could see it too.
I participated in a five-week seminar this summer about choosing one’s future. In the course of it, I realized my frequent anxieties were mostly a habit. I listed the many bad habits I’ve been able to shed (smoking cigarettes, nail biting, coffee, etc.) and decided I could change the habit of anxiety as well.
Now I pay attention, and when I start to feel anxious, I exercise, or journal to focus on my reality which is so fortunate, or just breathe! So far — pretty darn good. Sleeping better, and enjoying life without that low-level burn in my stomach telling me I’m not doing or being enough.
Comment by Maggie — September 21, 2009 @ 1:14 pm