Attitude, Not Ambience, Determines Happiness

Life isn't all about getting what you like, so you have to work on being happy, right?

Sure, but it's tough. What you like, or don't, may not always work unless you put in some effort. You need to work on that inner "perception, belief or opinion of the situation - and that will help you change your attitude," according to mindbodygreen.com.

Now this may be breaking news to you, but it broke a little bit early---about 2,000 years ago. There was this Greek philosopher Epictetus who may not have discovered it, but sounds as if he did: "People are disturbed, not by things (that happen to them), but by the principles and opinions which they form concerning (those) things. When we are hindered, or disturbed, or grieved, let us never attribute it to others, but to ourselves; that is, to our own principles and opinions."

So the current pundits of behavioral science have decided to agree. American psychologist Albert Ellis, who has developed rational emotive behavior therapy, said that "how" people react to incidents is a response to their "view" of the events, but not those events themselves.

Still, if you don't really think you can do it, then at least stand in the queue. Here are some ways:

Look inside and become aware that you are sad: Stop wishing that things were different and just take control of your thoughts and sadness. Smoke it out.

Realize optimism is a choice: You are not completely gifted with optimism or a positive attitude. Nothing in the world is completely "bad". In every situation, just jot down some positives and keep reminding yourself of them.

Use positive words: Keep repeating "I am hopeful," and "We will find a resolution," all day. The words you use when you talk have a major impact on your attitude and emotional outlook.

Hang out with friends who have a happy vibe: Surround yourself with friends who radiate positive energy. Pay attention to the words they use in order to describe you. It is quite simple to find out who has positive and who has the negative influence to cast on you. Then just push off to them, and find yourself joining the happy club.

Say a daily affirmation: "Something great is going to happen today," would probably fall flat if nothing great happens. Still, it's great to boost your energy and optimism. Even though it feels somewhat 'Zen', it could navigate your subconscious mind, and scientists as well as counselors say that it works!

So there you are. You may not be able to move a mountain, but you can climb over it. Or maybe you can't, yet find out what the other side looks like through a haze of happiness.