be happy

Today, I am reminded of the Sheryl Crow song 'A change...would do you good.'

Embracing change is not something I excel at. Unpredictability scares me. But in this season of my life, I am learning through my relationship with God and others, that change is necessary and healthy.

I have a book called 'be happy' by Monica Sheehan - 'A little book to help you live a happy life.' Each directive is accompanied by a cute sketch.

Here is what is contained within:

Show up.
Follow your heart.
Stay inspired.
Stop being a victim.
Do things you're good at.
Love your work.
Get a new perspective.
Have a sense of wonder.
Don't isolate.
Find people you love.
Set goals.
Finish what you started.
Help others.
Do a one day news fast.
Dance.
Pamper yourself.
Face your fears.
Go to a museum.
Any decision is better than no decision.
Exercise.
Limit television.
Listen to music.
Get in touch with nature.
Lighten up.
Have a moral compass.
Get a good night's sleep.
Read books.
Buy yourself flowers.
Reach out.
Set up a realistic schedule.
Don't compare yourself with others.
Live in the moment.
Don't beat yourself up.
Accept that life has its ups and downs.
Every night reflect on the 'good' things about your day.
Be open to new ideas.
Believe in yourself.
Be kind.
Let people know how special they are.
Be honest with yourself.
Don't focus on negative thoughts.
Focus on creating what you desire.
Make time just to have fun.
Say thank you to the people who teach you, support you, encourage you, and get you a cup of coffee.
Don't forget...money doesn't buy happiness.
Give away what you don't need, to someone who does.
Value who you are right now.
Be part of a community.
Find a common ground.
Keep the romance in your life.
Make a gratitude list.
Love your Mother Earth.
Do your best.
Don't lose hope. (You never know what tomorrow will bring.)
Keep learning.
Want what you have.
Believe in something bigger than yourself.
Stay close to friends and family.
Be true to yourself.

Then the book concludes with a page that says 'gratitude list' and has lines for you to write on.

Even though they are simple, these are hard orders to follow, but important ones for our spiritual and mental wellbeing.

Considering which to focus on for today, I chose 'Do your best'.

And I intend to.

How about you?