At Hope for Hearts we have an affinity for celebrating weird, wacky holidays. This week is no exception, and definitely one of the more cheerful, and fun, holidays to celebrate. It comes at an apropos time. The holidays are usually filled with family, friends and cheer, then we ring in the new year, kick off resolutions. By the end of January, the holiday frenzy dies down and life returns to normal, which can sometimes make people blue, longing for the fun of the holidays. In fact, January 25 is known as The Saddest Day of the Year or Blue Monday. This is one of those time when we can use a dose of inspiration for finding happiness.

Enter Hunt for Happiness Week (Jan. 15-21, 2017). This year marks the 16th anniversary of this annual celebration that literally has everyone seeking happiness within and without of their lives. This brings up the million dollar question…. What is happiness? Let’s explore in this week’s weekend word.

Happiness
noun
hap·pi·ness

  1. a state of well-being and contentment
  2. a pleasurable or satisfying experience

Contentment, satisfaction – that definition certainly leaves a lot of room for ambiguity. According to Psychology Today, philosophers, psychologists, theologians, etc. have sought to define happiness for centuries. So far, they’ve determined it’s more than simply a “positive mood,” but “a state of well-being that encompasses living a good life – that is with a sense of meaning and deep satisfaction.”

So the again, the million dollar question is – what is happiness? How do we find a sense of meaning and deep satisfaction. The answer will inevitably vary from person to person. Hunt for Happiness Week is dedicated to helping each person find their happiness. There’s actually an entire organization, the Secret Society of Happy People, dedicated to finding, and living in, happiness. If you need some inspiration, head on over to their webpage for some cool ideas on how to participate in Hunt for Happiness Week.

I particularly like their suggestion to play Happy I Spy. They’ve created free printable certificates that you can hand out to others (friends or strangers) when you see them having a happy moment. It’s a great way to connect with your community, spark ideas for finding your own happiness and learning that happiness is truly all around us.

In addition to the Secret Society of Happy People’s suggestions, I offer a few of my own. Have you considered how your surroundings and general health are affecting your personal happiness? Your body may be in a state of energetic chaos, and by making the right changes in your life you could restore the balance and be ready to bring happiness to others around you. Check out my blog at Graceful Spaces for ideas on how to restore your energetic chaos.

If helping in others in need brings you happiness, we encourage you to also help an orphan child in Uganda find their happiness by making a donation to support Hope for Hearts in honor of Hunt for Happiness Week. Come on, let’s get happy together!

Happily Yours,
Cristen