I'm sure it doesn't take a blog post from a random person like me to preach about the importance of leading a positive life. But I've always found consistent reminders to be helpful in the daily endeavors to lead a happy life, hence the reason for this post.
Several months ago when I had just begun blogging, some of my past posts had mentioned how I've morphed into a jaded cynic. For a time I was quite cynical, and I adopted my own form of sarcasm that, although often found funny, was a result of anger, self-doubt, and loneliness.
After some reflection and consideration, however, I made the choice one day that I was going to start being happy again and living a more positive, carefree life. It was then when I was inspired to write my blog post titled "Why I've decided to let go and let God".
When I made that choice (remember, happiness is a CHOICE), I knew I had to continue to stand by it. Each day I said my prayers, thanked the good Lord for my blessings, and made continuous efforts to have a positive attitude. And for some time, I was really content.
I spent my time with like-minded people, spent more time with my parents and grandparents, looked at exercise as a reward rather than a chore, and consciously made efforts to smile around the people I was with. And I really felt a difference. I had a pep in my step and even my smile started looking different in pictures.
And that's when I met my handsome dreamboat. Perhaps my ecstasy toward my current relationship is a big reason for this post... I've been dating my boyfriend for three months, although it seems much longer, and this is the happiest I've been in a really long time. He still gives me butterflies as if I'm seeing him all over again for the first time, and I try to treat every day as if I'm still trying to win him over. He is so incredible, and I can't help but think, every single day, how truly lucky I am to be gracing his arm. I thank the Lord for this blessing every day, and continually pray that He blesses our relationship.
Although Gabriel is a major source of my current happiness, I realize that, as the old adage goes, "you can't be happy with someone else if you're not happy with yourself." I wonder what things might be like if I had run into Gabe during my bout of depression and cynicism. Would he have been attracted to me then?
Something he often says to me is that he loves my positive attitude and how being around me makes him want to be a better person. Funny, because I think he makes me a better person. Now my motivation to be happy and positive is reinforced, not only for my own desires but for Gabriel as well.
This is not meant to say that I don't have my bad days or bouts of pessimism. That's normal. But instead of ruminating on the negative, I realize that a lot of things are out of my control. So, if you've got to vent, then vent! Get it out, but don't continuously ruminate the issue. Get it out, take a breath, slap a smile on, and move on. You'll be much happier you did in the long run.
I know a few people who are the way that I often used to be: incessantly angry, more negative than positive, and continuously pitying or doubting themselves. Now being on the other end, I realize how unattractive it is, and I never want to be that way again. While I do often struggle with self confidence (I have anxiety... I get it from my momma), I've realized that happiness breeds confidence. Negativity, however, only breeds continuous negative thoughts.
The choice to be happy doesn't always come easy because we all encounter some daily struggles or setbacks, but life would be so much easier and less stressful if everyone made a conscious effort to lead a positive lifestyle. The ability to be happy amidst adversity is a humbling, genuine experience.
A healthy and happy mind is a healthy and happy life. And the chance to share that with a special someone (or someones) is truly rewarding.
So, don't worry, be happy :)
~Elizabeth
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