Last week we discussed long term solutions to finding your HAPPY. Today we'll be talking about short term ideas.
Remember...
HAPPY involves a choice, a daily decision, on my part.
Here's a list of short-term temporary activities sure to help.
Walk around a park or take up gardening. Admire the scenery. God created it for us to enjoy.
Soak in a bubble bath. Make yourself stay there until your body relaxes even if that means adding more hot water. Make sure you have your favorite beverage and a great book handy.
Sit on a bench in front of a lake and watch the ducks frolic.
Swing. When was the last time you pumped a swing high in the air, letting the breeze ruffle across your face? Do you have a porch swing? That works, too.
Visit a friend in the hospital. If you don't know anybody in the hospital, go anyway and sit in the cafeteria. You'll find someone to talk to.
Offer a smile to someone who looks like they need it more than you.
Visit your local humane society. Pet a dog or cuddle with a kitty. Even if you don't bring one of those furry friends home with you, they're sure to spark a smile.
Bake some goodies and then take them to your local fire department.
Take your kids to visit the zoo. If you don't have any children, grab the neighbor kids. Animal antics are sure to produce a smile.
Call a friend you haven't spoken with in ages.
Meet a friend for coffee or lunch. Or just go by yourself and splurge.
Vacuum. Yeah. I know. This one sounds a lot like work, but don't you love the way your house sparkles after you're finished?
Iron. The mindless repetition is therapeutic.
Go horseback riding. Another way to feel the breeze ruffle your cheeks. Warning: this activity is physically strenuous and may cause soreness, but it's so much fun!
Join an exercise class.
Buy a bird feeder and watch who comes to dinner. Listen to their melodies.
Sink into a recliner and listen to worship music.
Offer to babysit for a single mother.
Drive until you don't see any houses. Enjoy the scenery.
Pray. Pray. And pray some more.
Now is your time of grief, but I will see you again and you will rejoice, and no one will take away your joy. John 16:22 (NIV)
What would you add to this list? I'd love to hear your ideas.
Labels: appreciate the little things, daily decision, garden, gratitude, have you lost your happy, humane society, joy, park, rejoice, Ways to get your happy back
