Sunflower - Photo Theresa Sjoquist

Gratitude is the fastest way to get happy because we are only ever grateful for things we can appreciate.  It is a physical impossibility to be grateful and hateful at the same time.  Gratitude is a feeling so if you’re feeling grateful or appreciative, that excludes any other feelings.

If we’re really interested in being happy then the best place to start is by being grateful.  I know this from personal experience and I promise you it works. Start by finding the benefit, the good thing, and continue by constantly looking for benefits and good things.  You’ll be astonished by how many there are, by how much good is already around you.

When you can recognise this, your attitude will change to one of a much happier tone.  Persevere – make it a challenge – it’s worth it just for the sense of bounty around you.  A happy spin-off is that you’ll be radiating pleasure and there’s nothing more attractive to other people than a happy person.