Happiness Happens Month

August is Happiness Happens Month. (Yes, I saw that online.) While it seems like an obscure celebration, it makes sense to consider that concept. Happiness does happen, and not always when we plan or expect it.

I am naturally an optimistic person. I try to find the positive in every situation. But even I have days where I am down or focus on the bad stuff in life. (Yes, I acknowledge there is a lot of it, especially in today’s historical era, but that’s not what this post is about.) I am learning to let myself feel what I feel and then move on. Sometimes that moving on takes some doing.

If I can take action on the things that are going wrong, that can turn things around. For example, writing letters to the editor or my representatives, posting about the issue to help get the word out, volunteering for a group or cause I believe in are all things that can turn my mood around and help me feel better. (If you’re as into libraries as I am, try the American Library Association’s Unite Against Book Bans for one cause. Sorry, I digress….) Helping my family or friends can work, too.

When I need to pull myself out of a funk, I choose things that will bring mindfulness or help me focus on the here and now instead of worrying about things I cannot control. Going for a walk, being in nature, writing, practicing yoga, and so on all help me stay in the moment and focus on better things.

Sometimes, happiness comes to me, too. When I observe the backyard bees with a child, or have a conversation with a neighbor, or watch a cooking show on TV, I find happiness without even looking for it. I expect that is what “Happiness Happens” is about. Sometimes, something brings you joy or wonder when you least expect it.

My advice is, when happiness lights on your shoulder like a butterfly, enjoy the moment! Don’t try to chase it. Stay open to possibility and invite it to happen again. Maybe it will when you need it the most.

Until then, hang in there. We all have bad days. Work toward making things better, or find mindfulness when you can. But sometimes it just happens on its own. Keep the faith that happiness will find you again. It might come when you least expect it. Happiness happens!