Finding Happiness in Ordinary Life

Most of us feel that the ideal emotional state is one of intense, manic euphoria, and that we should feel that way most of the time.
Well, it isn't and we shouldn't.
Excitement is a great and necessary thing; without it life wouldn't be complete. But real happiness is something different, much more calmer and rewarding.
When the Powerball winner starts shaking and screaming, we call that happiness, but it's actually that their "fight or flight" mechanism has been triggered. Mania can create maniacs, that's why sports fans seem to riot more violently after their teams win than after they lose. Our "fight or flight" system predisposes us to violence. Switching this on, switches off the process that allows us to relax, connect, and absorb joyful experiences.
These types of high excitement experiences are often followed by a mood crash. This helps explain why thrill seekers are always searching for their next high. With or without drugs. Some prize to top all other prizes. The only remedy to maintain that mania is another intensely exciting experience.
True happiness is found in the simple things of everyday life. The things we've learned to take for granted. When you watch someone you love sleep, the smell of the rain,catching something before it hits the ground, feeling the warmth of the sun on your face, being told you made someone's day, watching another netflix episode, your dog's excitement when you get home.
Be mindful of the little things that make you smile throughout your day. This is where you will find life's simple pleasures and true happiness.
Enjoy!

Train Your Brain To Stay Positive

Your brain produces about 70,000 thoughts per day. If you spend a few minutes monitoring your thoughts, you might be surprised by how negative you can be. Basically, we're habitually negative without even realizing it. So how do we stop ourselves from thinking negative thoughts if we don't even realize it's happening?

Here are five tips to make sure most of your 70,000 thoughts are positive:

1.  Observe your thoughts. You can't fix a problem you don't know about. Once you observe your thinking you will know where to start.
2.  Choose a mantra for the day.  Every morning, choose a mantra and repeat it to yourself throughout the day. It can be something as simple as "I'm a happy person." Repeating your mantra trains your brain to think positively.
3.  Use an app.  Check out apps like Louise Hay's Stress Free Life and her I Can Do It Calendar. These apps will provide you with an affirmation for the day.
4.  Transform a negative into a positive.  All of us have one thought that dominates our minds. It's that extra 10 pounds we need to lose, our out of control finances. Take that main thought and turn it into an affirmation. This will help give you confidence and motivation.
5.  Make a gratitude list.  Come up with five things you're grateful for and write them down. Making a gratitude list can alter your mood and keep you focused on the positive in life.

Put these tips to use and you'll reap the physical, mental, and performance benefits that come with a positive frame of mind!