March 20th has been officially set as the International Day of Happiness by the United Nations.
The United Nations has deemed March 20th as the International Day of Happiness. However, we’re often wondering what is or how to even define happiness. More importantly, we’re in constant pursuit of it. Many of us base our happiness on external factors such as money, accumulation of bags or being in a relationship and find that our happiness fades when those possessions are lost. Happiness also is more than trying to feel cheerful all the time or putting a smile on your face when everything isn’t okay.
Happiness is about building a positive life as well as helping others achieve it as well. The most powerful piece of advice I’ve received from one of my life coaches was to write a mission statement for your life. A mission statement isn’t just for fortune 500 companies. Mission statements a great moral compass that sets the tone for how to live your best life. When it’s written down, it remains as a continuous reminder to keep things on track.
Once you write a mission statement for your life, you can then begin thinking about goals in various facets of your life. Health & Wellness, Family & Friends, Career/Education, Finance and Community are just some examples that I’ve chosen to think about and have begun developing action plans.
When you have a mission statement writing goals in some of these areas becomes easy because now you have your moral compass in place to guide you. Think about what long term plans you can create or people that you can reach out to help you reach your goals.
Also, your goals should be measurable so that you can gauge your progress ( i.e. a deadline, $$ in your checking account, 5 min per mile).
When your goals are written out share them with friends and family and challenge them as well to write down their own life goals. You never know what can be revealed from this process and the bonds it creates. Your happiness is part of something bigger.
Although International Happiness Day happens once a year, it is a great reminder of the importance of happiness in the lives of people around the world. Happiness starts from within , so do what makes you happy or take the necessary steps to get there. Setting up a mission statement/goals are a great tool to get you on your way towards your pursuit of happiness.
