If we really got to the bottom line of what everyone wants it would likely be Happy!
So, I’m offering you a Happiness Challenge!
Of course, we all have our unique and individual ways of defining what happiness means to us, but I do believe that today you can begin a Happiness Challenge that will take you and others to a new level of happiness! Are you up for the challenge?
First: Think about these anonymous quotes!
“The greatest need of the human being is being appreciated!”
Who have you appreciated today? Have you appreciated yourself also? Have you appreciated what you have? How?
“No one has ever become poor by giving!”
What praise have you given to someone today? Giving praise raises the level of happiness.
“Watch your thoughts, they become your words. Watch your words, they become actions. Watch your actions, they become habits. Watch your habits, they become your character. Watch your character it becomes your destiny.”
Might you choose to have your destiny be happiness?
Now: Consider too the work of Dr. Gary Chapman and his best selling books on the Languages of Love. He has many books on this topic. Simply stated he is emphasizing and encouraging the importance of loving one another and yourself.
Can you feel how loving another could bring you or others more happiness?
Here is a brief overview, enough information to help you take the challenge:
Dr. Chapman’s theory behind his basic book The 5 Languages of Love is that we each have unique ways of feeling that we are loved. All 5 ways are helpful to creating happiness, but we each have one that is most special to us, especially in our close family and friend relationships. Those 5 in my own words are Quality Time, Gifts, Practical Help, Touch and Words.
Reality: In the workplace and in our day-to-day exchanges with the public the safest, the quickest, the easiest and most appreciated way is through our Words. The most effective are words that are very specific, honest and brief, such as:
“Thank You for helping me lift that box. You made that easy for me!”
“I am so grateful that you came to my party and generously brought that great lemon cake! We have all enjoyed it so much. Thank You!”
“You were so kind to introduce me to new people this morning. I felt so welcomed, and it is due to your willingness to take the time to make those introductions.”
So to make what might be complicated simple, here are your guidelines for taking up The Happiness Challenge:
Say:
Use the person’s name if you know it (Are they wearing a name tag?), and look in their eyes. Praise, yes, praise 2-20 people for two days and notice their response and notice how you feel. (Reactions: physically, mentally, verbally and emotionally)
Skip Saying:
“Good Job” or other general common clichés.
With all the busyness of life we can tend to miss all the good and kindness around us. Let’s savor and express our gratitude and just be Happy!
I invite you to “Report” back by writing an email to me as to how you found The Challenge for you. Barbara@BarbaraHribar.com
Are You Ready? Of course you are! Take on The Happiness Challenge starting right now!