Have you made the choice of happiness and peace, dear reader? I have. It is 4:38 am on Thursday, the 13th of January. Twelve days of the month have passed and I am on track to meet my objectives of putting order back into my life.

Though truth be told, it took all my effort to start. I pushed myself. This was not because of physical exhaustion — but because I have been emotionally damaged (I am being somewhat overdramatic!) by the restricted lifestyle in Elsewhere. Finally, I decided that even though I cannot have a normal, colorful life and the usual freedoms that go with it, I will not allow Elsewhere to cause me to lose my self-respect.

It was certain I had been adrift for far too long so I decided it was time to put my personal house in order. So much I missed the feeling of living an orderly life, An uplifting life that creates an aura of peace — my theme for 2022. It was time to choose happiness.

Happiness is a Choice: Understanding the Power of Perspective

GETTING BACK IN THE MENTAL HEALTH GROOVE

Admittedly, I had to ‘force’ myself to get back into a normal routine of working out for my health and for my outer look. I felt this would restore the inner happiness I enjoyed before COVID 19. This was how I would choose happiness. It was very difficult for the first month but I did it. And, so can you if need be. However, it’s important to recognize that many factors, including our mindsets and mental health, influence our ability to feel happy and maintain positive routines.

First, I have disciplined myself to drive to Pilates twice a week for an 8:00 am session and to work out at home with Rebeka at 7:00 am twice a week. Once I hit my one-month anniversary, I was back into the groove. I smile more often, my feelings are more positive, and I feel inner empowerment and enlightenment. Adopting positive mindsets has also helped support my mental health. And I’ve lost weight and inches. Things are looking up!

CLEANING OUT MY CLOSET FOR SELF ACCEPTANCE

Next, I devised a two-week plan to sort through my closet. What pushed me to gather up the initiative? We are taking a trip at the end of January and I had no choice… lights, camera, action if you know what I mean! Sometimes, even the job of organizing your closet can influence your happiness, especially when it aligns with upcoming plans.

The clothes in my closet hung untouched for almost two years. Sweet reader, I had lost my enthusiasm. My normal shopping ritual due to COVID 19, stopped dead in its tracks.

I used to walk down streets and gather on whims. I rarely planned a day to shop. In Elsewhere, I have to make an appointment. I am fearful of a gunman walking into the store while I am undressed in a dressing room. Or I wait in a long line outside a shop. Not my style. This is not my happiness. Instant gratification from spontaneous shopping used to bring me happiness, but now so many things have changed.

Before America became Elsewhere, I remember in the past walking by a shop. I noticed a salesman about to hang up a coat. Immediately I was struck with love for this coat! It stopped me dead in my tracks! How lucky was that, dear reader? I walked in, introduced myself to the salesman, and walked out with the coat, on sale for 40% off! It is still my favorite. A black Georgio Armani winter coat. It is five years old and I love it as much as the day I saw it. I cannot shop that way anymore. While money played a role in making that purchase possible, it was never the only factor in my happiness.

Reflecting on these changes, it’s clear that shifts in routines and shopping habits have deeply impacted our lives.

ONE STEP AT A TIME TO FIND HAPPINESS

I worked slowly in my closet over two weekends because weekdays are filled with work, etc.

1. The first weekend I sorted through my clothes, organizing them by color and style. Coordination helped beautify my small closet. And so did the thin black and white hangers and the quilted patterned floral motif ones I bought on Amazon. Spending time on self improvement and focusing on your own growth during this process can lead to positive emotions and a greater sense of well-being.

2. The following weekend I tried on my sorted clothing from my work the week before. I looked at my handbags and went through my drawers in our bedroom and in my bathroom. It was a very busy few days. But, I did it. And, I enjoyed the process as I played music on my Google Nest Hub Max. These activities remind you of the benefits of being focused on your goals and how they lead to greater happiness and emotional satisfaction. (Which, is $40 off at the time of this publication! Get one here!)

3. During the following week I walked across the street from our condo in the sky to introduce myself to the tailor. I asked him if he would do my pinnings at our home. My Ultimate Concierge had clothes altered and they had become friends. He said yes he would be happy to. And then on one of my whims, I extended him an invitation to have Sunday brunch with us. He smiled and said he would look forward to Sunday. Social interactions like these can lead to emotional well-being and support your own growth.

MY SUNDAY MORNING HAPPINESS

Sunday came. I set the table and was so thrilled to be having company! You would have thought I was having royalty. It had been so long since I entertained guests in our dining room. While hosting brings me joy, I am also aware that toxic people can sometimes diminish happiness in such settings, making it important to cherish positive company.

I took care in setting a lovely table. I served lox and bagels and scrambled eggs. There were Greek green and black olives, avocado, cottage cheese and other cheeses, fresh grapes, home squeezed orange juice, and coffee. My happiness abounded and I felt serene and peaceful as I prepared a lovely brunch. The presence of happy people and a sense of hope truly brought out the bright side of our gathering, making the atmosphere even more uplifting.

We sat down for brunch and never in my wildest dreams did I expect our Sunday brunch to be so extraordinary! This tailor has traveled in style! I knew nothing about his background until today and I will muse about it on Sunday Morning. It was a delightful brunch and I added the tailor to my list of interesting people. Still, I recognize that not everyone or even most people may always find happiness in such gatherings—unhappiness or feeling unhappy can sometimes be present, even in the midst of joyful moments.

MY CHOICE FOR HAPPINESS

To me, the effort of putting order back into my life this past month has been transformative. It has simplified and uncomplicated my life and brought me peace. I no longer feel stressed. This is best described as nourishing.

However, the real reason happiness is so complex is that there is a difference between happiness and resilience. While resilience is about strength and outlook, happiness is an emotion that can fluctuate and is not experienced all the time. Depression and mental illness can significantly impact one’s ability to choose happiness, making it clear that happiness is not simply a matter of deciding to be happy. Sometimes, even when nothing seems visibly wrong, feelings of unhappiness or sadness can still be present. For many, the expectation to be happy can become an unreasonable expectation, especially in difficult circumstances such as not knowing where the next meal will come from. Choosing happiness and finding your own happiness is a deeply personal journey, and not everyone shares the same definition of happiness.

I solved a problem. It took all my willpower, I swear. I feel an energy in the air. An energy I have not felt in almost two years. It is a start.

My self-esteem is once again flourishing. Orderliness creates this. I am using my New Year’s system; my word is peace. Peace comes in many weird places, even in a woman’s closet and early morning workouts. La De Da. I am smiling.

Last night my Ultimate Concierge and I ventured out with friends for dinner. As we were leaving our condo I said, “I forgot my mask! Do you have yours? And, do you have our cards to prove we were vaccinated?” I could not believe what I was saying. “I have photos of our vaccination cards on my phone but who knows what ‘big brother’ will demand!” Who would have thought…

Alas, it is what it is, dear reader. And we will get through. We can be happy — but we have to make that choice.

Happiness is an emotion influenced by many factors, and sadness is a natural part of life. Choosing happiness and discovering your own happiness is a unique process for everyone, shaped by circumstances, emotions, and personal values.

THE POWER OF GRATITUDE

How Practicing Thankfulness Changed My Perspective

Over the past year, I discovered that gratitude has the remarkable power to transform not just my outlook, but my entire experience of life. When I made the conscious decision to focus on the positive things—no matter how small—I found myself able to find happiness even when circumstances weren’t ideal. This shift didn’t happen overnight, but as I started to notice and appreciate the joyful moments in my day, my mindset gradually changed. I realized that happiness isn’t just something that happens to us; it’s something we can choose, even when life feels overwhelming.

Positive psychology teaches us that gratitude is a cornerstone of a fulfilling life. By focusing on what’s good, we nurture a positive attitude and open ourselves up to more joy. I began to see that my well-being was less about what was happening around me and more about how I was focusing my attention. Even on days when things felt heavy, choosing to notice the beauty in a sunrise, a kind word from a friend, or a quiet moment with a loved one helped me experience happiness in a deeper way. Gratitude became my anchor, reminding me that joy can be found in the present moment, no matter the circumstances.

Simple Ways to Cultivate Gratitude Every Day

Cultivating gratitude doesn’t require grand gestures or hours of free time—it’s about weaving small, meaningful practices into your daily routine. Here are a few simple ways I’ve found helpful:

• Keep a gratitude journal: Each evening, I jot down three things I’m thankful for. This simple act helps me focus on the positive things in my life and encourages self-acceptance, even on tough days.
• Share your gratitude: Whether it’s a quick text to a friend or a heartfelt conversation with a loved one, expressing thanks strengthens meaningful relationships and brings a sense of joy to both giver and receiver.
• Reflect on happy moments: I take a few minutes each day to remember the good things that have happened, no matter how small. This practice helps me develop a positive mindset and truly appreciate the present moment.
• Try a gratitude meditation practice: Guided meditations or even a few deep breaths while focusing on what I’m grateful for can calm my mind and help me choose happiness, even when life feels chaotic.
• Express gratitude to others: A kind word, a handwritten note, or a small gesture can brighten someone’s day and foster a sense of community and well-being.

By making gratitude a daily habit, I’ve found that I’m more resilient in the face of challenges and more open to experiencing true happiness. It’s not about ignoring the hard parts of life, but about choosing to focus on the positive and finding joy in the everyday. As one motivational speaker wisely said, “Gratitude is the key to unlocking true happiness and living a fulfilling life.” So why not take a moment today to reflect on what you’re grateful for? You might be surprised at how much brighter your world becomes.

How do you continue to choose peace and happiness? Please share with me in the comments!

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