Happiness.  We all know what it is.  We all want it.

But why do we want it?  I am curious - as each of us has our own reasons.

I feel I am pretty content in life.  Of course, we all have our ups and downs, our good days and our bad days, but I am happy.  I am grateful.  I have a roof over my head, food anytime I need/want it, not one job, but two, a healthy family, fabulous and supportive friends, and the best hubby in the world.  Hands down.  Life is great.

In my opinion, I think focusing on those "little things" keep us happy.  How often do you stop to even acknowledge those little things?  The freedom in those little things.  And what those little things offer to us in our lives.

Theories actually suggest that 40% of a person's happiness is based upon the actions you choose to do ~ those things you can do on a regular basis (sourced from the documentary Happy).  FORTY PERCENT!  That's pretty huge, considering it means that you have a large part in contributing to your happiness.

So before you choose what you will do with your day, what are things that would make you happy?

Every day is different.  For me, today, I chose to catch up on things at home and indulge into a few cappuccinos.  Maybe yesterday, that would not have made me happy.  And I know tomorrow, that won't make me happy as I have a date with my skis, skins and WP resort bright and early.  Saturdays are my designated mornings to skin to the top of that never ending mountain.  And it makes me happy because I am alone in the stillness of nature and I know I will get to see the sunrise without being distracted.

Brainstorm ideas of what makes you happy.  It doesn't have to be winning the lottery or a new fancy home.  Dig deeper.  And even deeper.  Find those things in the nooks and crannies of your life that maybe you never gave attention to before.  Like coffee, for example.  It's warm.  It's comfort.  What's not to love.  Maybe tea.  Maybe a snowflake landed on your nose.  Build your awareness on those things that you often pass by.

Becoming aware is key.  Knowing you are having a bad day allows you to acknowledge and accept it and then DO something about it.  Remember what I mentioned above:  40% of your happiness is based upon the actions you CHOOSE to do.

Be present.  Be aware.  I recently ran across a quote that really stuck a cord with me.  I don't know who said it.  "When you live in the present moment, you will never have to wait for anything".

Just a little reminder to empower yourself today.  To be grateful.  To see the little things.  To become aware.  To cultivate your definition of happiness.  And then practice that - every day.

Those things are hard to do if you are constantly planning for the future or dragging your feet in the past.  We all have the skill set to be happy.  And if you don't think so, make an effort to change just one thing in your day.  I promise, you will see that you indeed have the skills.  Instead of wanting happiness, BE HAPPINESS.