Why happiness is more than just smiling all the time...

Happiness is more than just having a smile on your face, it comes from a place deep down inside because really, any one can force a smile but may be struggling on the inside. 



I have been one of those people, that forces a smile to make others think I am doing just fine. This usually happened for me with a previous job where I was really miserable or when a past relationship was about to combust and I was in denial and didn't want to face the facts. It happens to the best of us at different times in our lives. 



"Since I started my self love journey this has changed for me. I see happiness in a different light. One of pure joy and a feeling deep within my heart and soul.



I have also learnt that happiness is more than just a smile or trying to tell yourself you are happy when really you are not. True happiness comes from a place of self discovery. Appreciation for who you are as a person. Gratitude for everything in your life no matter how big or small. Knowing that you are perfect just the way you are because there is no one else in this world that is you and boy that is beautiful. 

It all begins with learning, reading and experimenting. Trying new things even if they sound a little out there. Making time for yourself and knowing that is okay. Being open and willing to move on from the past and jump into your exciting future. 


My journey began with Melissa Ambrosini. I can't remember where I came across her blog but I bought her eBook (12 Steps to Wellness) and it changed my life. I began to meditate. Exercised because I wanted to look after my body and not because I wanted to lose weight or look a certain way. I cleaned out my wardrobe and got rid of anything that no longer served me. Goodbye old clothes! And the big changer for me was writing down three things each day that I was thankful for. 


"Wow, showing gratitude opened up my eyes to how wonderful my life really was. This simple task, made me look on the bright side of life even after a crappy day. It really puts things into perspective and you see the world through a new set of eyes.


These simple changes really started to show their magic in situations where I would usually start to stress. I now stop myself and take a few deep breaths and guess what? The stress passes and I realise why get upset about something so trivial. 


But one important lesson in all this is knowing that being truly happy isn't about smiling all the time. Shit happens and we all need to deal with it, so do just that, deal with it. Feel the raw emotion. Cry. Get upset. Whatever you need to do to feel it but then let it go. Move on. Learn the lesson.


"Remember the quote - "This too shall pass". And yes it does...



:: What have you learnt on your self love journey when it comes to happiness? Or if you are still not there yet, I would love for you to start a new task this week you have always wanted to do. Read a book or try meditation. Let me know how you go.



Be happy & healthy,