– Robert Fulghum
Years ago, I read something that really stayed with me. I think it was in a book about how to create success in your life; I don’t remember. What I do remember is the idea that even in times of economic crisis, there are people who THRIVE, and they do this by simply making the most of whatever life sends their way. Many of us keep thinking if only this or that would happen, THEN we would be happy/successful/at peace, which of course makes well-being dependent on outside influences. Not everyone who goes through a divorce is miserable: some are overjoyed and feel better than they have in years. Not everyone who works in a certain field or position is dissatisfied with their job: some feel lucky and enjoy going to work each day. When we think that things have to be different in order to be content, we set ourselves up for dissatisfaction. If instead, we ask ourselves, How can I make this better?
all sorts of new possibilities begin to unfold in all sorts of interesting ways. If you’ve been waiting for something to change so you can feel better, ask yourself what you can do to make the situation better right away. This may mean you choose to not let certain people or things bother you any more, or that you choose to make a game of drawing the best out of people and situations that have been getting you down. Whatever it may be, just remember: you can THRIVE and be radiantly happy regardless of what’s happening in the world around you.