Happinness Happens!

How happy you are from 1 to 10? Tricky question, huh? There are plenty of things in life that are less than perfect and we could just as easily choose to be happy or unhappy about that. While we don’t have control over everything that happens in the outside world, we can control what happens inside us, because being happy is a state of mind, hence you can CHOOSE to be happy in whatever scale it is. 

As for now, I make this simple list about little things that guide me to experience joy in my days. And here, then, are the small actions that make me happy:

1.      Health and exercise

It’s not all about how many calories I could burn, but form of self appreciation towards my body. I love my body and part of that appreciation includes wanting it to be healthier. I add vegetables in my daily meals as often as possible, choosing fruits instead of Ketupat Sayur or Nasi Uduk as my breakfast, and exercising at least 3 times a week. I figured out that I’m happy when I work out. Study says physical activity stimulates various brain chemicals that may leave you feeling happier. Thanks to Endorphin boost that brings us excitement and mood improvement. To make your exercise routine more bearable, try to find out what’s your favorite. Mine is running. I felt so much better after I’ve finished my running. The runners high glow never fails to make me feel happier (and sexier too! LOL)

2.      Say YES to life

There are probably certain things you’re not good at either. From public speaking, move on from someone, making tough decisions. Well, unfortunately some things don’t come as easy as it seemed. There will be moments when you have to do that, or maybe you want to, but you don’t have guts to do so. Try to conquer those fears. Sometimes we do not know what we are capable of until we step out of our comfort zones (as cliche as that sounds). My suggestion, just do it and decide — I’m going to give it a real shot and see how it goes. It’s better to regret something you did, than regret because you did nothing, right? The old adage certainly rings true here. I try to keep myself motivated by imagine the tangible things I can accomplish, and I may just turn into that person I've always wanted to be. If my first attempt didn’t succeed, I learn to understand what I did wrong previously and use that knowledge to make improvements for the future.  And you know what, mastering a new activity makes you more confident and this will lead you to be more happy with yourself.

3.      DIY-Project!

My favorite DIY Project is cooking. Cooking is like a therapy to me. Honestly I’m not a good cook, but I believe everyone can cook! I’m a newbie cook. I cook based on easy recipes I’ve found on the internet. Maybe the taste isn’t that good, but by making something with your own hand, you’ll feel some kind of indescribable excitements.. Last year I took cooking class and learned how to make cookies. I’ve failed several times before I finally made it. After that, I started to make my own cookies and get a little time to keep it in a jar. Actually it doesn’t have to be a special dish, you can try to make your own breakfast. A simple smoothie with your favorite fruits and yogurt, perhaps?

4.      Great conversations

Having a great conversation never fails to make me feel better. It doesn’t have to be a serious talk, it could be small talks, taking jokes, or unexpectedly talk about the big things with someone who makes me comfortable. The point is, meet someone you think you can have a great connection with. It’s not always about a romantic relationship, it could be your friends, families, or communities that support your hobbies. Meet them in person, not online.

5.      Culinary Journey

Have I mentioned that I LOVE to eat? Culinary things never fails to make me happy. I love to exploring new places with good food. Lately I’ve been to Kalaha at The Wharf, in Ancol Beach City. If you’re looking for place to have a cozy Sunday brunch, Kalaha at The Wharf is such a good place to be! Nice decorating and you can see the beach through Alfresco Area. Food was good and affordable too. I’m very interested to try another menu whenever I get a chance to come. And oh, if you’re on culinary journey, try not to think about how many calories are in the dish you want most, just get it! :D 

Actually there’re many points to be listed down. I believe by counting them in a simple list, this will help us to be more grateful and brings out the happiness from within, because gratitude does the mind good!

We’re maybe have different things to be happy about but that’s the way happiness works! It comes from within, by doing what you believe in. Try not to rely on others to provide your happiness, they should only ADD to it. That is my guideline to happiness. What would you add to your list? :)