Reading is a great way to change your perspective and sometimes even your demeanor. The Art of Happiness, by Dr. Howard C. Cutler and His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama was recommended to me and seemed like a great place to begin my journey towards increased contentment with life and becoming a nicer person to be around.I copied many of my favorite nuggets into my notebook for continued reflection and I will touch on them here from time to time. First are two short quotes from HHDL - the kernel of how I have become a happy person - which are encountered near the front of the book.
By bringing about a certain inner discipline, we can undergo a transformation of our attitude, our entire outlook and approach to living.
...happiness is determined more by ones state of mind than by external events.
...happiness is determined more by ones state of mind than by external events.
These are an affirmation of my belief that I have ultimate control of who I am and how I feel. Through mindful awareness I have the ability to overhaul my perspective from within. My happiness cannot be created nor destroyed by anyone but me and I control it all within my mind.
What is the secret to your happiness?
I'd agree with His Holiness that happiness is more of an internal thing than something determined by external circumstances. For me, I find I am most happy when I focus on being aware of and thankful for the many good things in my life.
ReplyDeleteWhen you make a point of noticing the positive aspects of life, it's amazing how many there really are. Thanks for reading and sharing, Sarah.
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