Ever wonder why some people get to be so happy? So far, I have established one thing, happiness is somehow tied to simplicity in life .. the simpler your life is, apparently the happier you are going to be.
I like to think that I am a fairly happy person. It might not have been the case just a year ago but in the last year alone, I have managed to rediscover my self. I was able to achieve all of my goals – and more. Through sheer hard work and determination, and with a positive approach to life.
I started my kids in a great school and daycare, got in my Post Grad diploma of Teaching in a highly prestigious university of my choice.
I changed house, bought new furniture along the way and topped it of with a new SUV a few days ago.
I started my blog that got great exposure when my Blogging Tips post made it to freshly pressed – for four days. YAY! I also got great readers and subscribers, who wouldn’t have found me otherwise. I also found great writers and bloggers to learn from. :) I got some work published on the web, a great start in the world of web writing.
I completed two teaching placements and one year (half) of my teaching degree. Phew! It’s hard to believe I actually survived.
After my parents’ visit from overseas, I am going for a holiday of about 6 weeks with my family. YAYYY :) Leaving on Jan 15, so get in your comments early. :)
So yes I have had a very good year. This brought on a sudden burst of inspiration to write something light-hearted on life and happiness, taking a break from blogging and writing advice. Psst .. it helped to read The 100 Simple Secrets of Happy People: What Scientists Have Learned and How You Can Use It by David Niven as well.
Here goes
My top tips that are helping me to lead a truly happy life.
Have a Purpose and Meaning in your Life
Set goals in your life and make sure they are in perfect harmony with each other. They are life tyres of your car, they must move in the same direction. If they conflict with each other, you will end up being very stressed out and dissatisfied with your life.
Invest in Friendships
Life without close, meaningful relationships is meaningless.
You do not have to be a social butterfly, however true friends will make you come alive. Take care of your friends and reap the rewards of belonging.
Friendship beats money, hands down. Tell your friends what they mean to you and make their day, as well as yours. Keep your word.

A happy life
It Hurts to Compare with Unrealistic Standards
Think of those whose examples are worthy but make sure you stay true to yourself.
Have realistic expectations. You are a person, not a stereotype. Be comfortable in your own skin.
Be grateful that you are fortunate than many. Accept yourself. Believe in yourself – Just not too much.
Ask for help when you need it and share your problems with your mates.
Every relationship is different, don’t compare yours with your friend’s.
Let your goals evolve or you will get seriously hurt. Do the things you are good at. Money is not the end to all problems.
Turn off the TV
Excessive tv watching takes you away from life. Your partners and kids literally need to shout to be heard. It makes you lazy and makes you take your relationships for granted. Do not take tv’s view of the world, the picture is tainted.
Be Open to New Experiences
Life-long learning is the key to life long fun. Get a hobby, be it dance, cooking class, new form of exercise or some course at the university; try something new to stay young and fresh. Volunteer your time in your community. Join a group. Have fun.
If You are Not Sure, Guess Positively
If somebody is being nice, do they have an agenda or are they a nice person? Are you the type of person who stays positive, or assumes the worst? Try banishing this self-defeating habit and see the profound effect on your life. Check out positivity blog’s 5 powerful questions that can help make 2011 a fantastic year for you.

Be Happy
Develop a Household Routine
If your life is all over the place, you will dread waking up in the morning. You will be harried, rushed and overly stressed trying to manage your average day. Surround yourself with beautiful things and wonderful smells. Enjoy the ordinary.
Get a Good Night Sleep
Works wonders. Exercise and get physically active. Its nothing like feeling your best throughout the day.
Keep Your Family Close
Develop shared interests with your loved ones.
Be Thankful
Pay attention to your life, you might already have that you really need.
Your definition of success has to be your own. Remember to think good, your life is a success based on your judgement only. Keep perspective, maintain integrity.
2010 was my happiness project, check out Gretchen Rubin’s site for her book in which she documented her year long happiness project. What has made you particularly happy with yourself the past year? Any major goals, any outstanding achievements? Please share. What are your best tips for being happy?
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