I'll be happy when

How many people do you know, including yourself, who define their happiness through external events? “I’ll be happy when I find a partner.” “I’ll be happy when I retire.” I’ll be happy when I win the lottery.” They are dependent on an event outside of themselves to bring them happiness. The important question to ask is, “How am I happy in the life I have today?” The answer to that question begins with checking in on the emotions you have at this moment related to your feelings of happiness. Are they positive or negative? Next check in with the thoughts that accompany them. Are they positive or negative? Our emotions drive our thoughts, not the other way around. You can increase your feelings of being happy by focusing on prior events that generated a sense of well-being. You can also focus on what you are grateful for today. Both of these practices bring you into the present. Accept that no one is happy 100% of the time, but that you can spend the greater part of the day feeling happy. How would you rate your level of happiness at this moment and what can you do to improve its presence in your life?