“Don’t Worry – Be Happy.” It sounds cliché and is easier said than done. Especially when we’re in the midst of something we feel is robbing us of our joy.
Difficult times are an unfortunate part of life, but they are also opportunities for growth. Many of us believe, even if unconsciously, that our personal happiness is the result of our circumstances, but happiness is a choice – and it can be cultivated.
Here are some ways to increase your everyday joy:
Identify your strengths and try focusing on them daily. If you’re reasonably self-aware, you probably already have a good idea of what they are. The key is to find situations in which to use them each day. Studies show that happiness increases and depression decreases when a person uses his or her individual strengths regularly. For example, if your strengths are humor, kindness, and appreciation of beauty, look for ways to use them throughout your day; chances are you’ll feel more joyful.
I happen to be a person who derives more joy from experiences than things, so most of my recreational money is spent on travel, food, and performing arts, rather than new gadgets or toys. Regardless of income levels, enjoyed experiences can be better investments in terms of happiness than acquiring material goods. Just as a new car begins losing its value as soon as it leaves the lot, “stuff” begins decreasing in “happiness value” almost as soon as it’s purchased. Experiences, however, have multiple emotional benefits.
Savoring is the act of momentarily stepping outside of an experience to review and appreciate it while it’s happening — and, paradoxically, it’s a way of helping you stay more present in it. Learning to savor an experience can extend the enjoyment of it.
Try to find a moment to savor each day and share that experience with someone else. Actively looking for and anticipating these moments can elevate your happiness quotient.
If you’re generally a thankful person and readily express appreciation, your happiness levels increase. It is an easy thing to practice. Make a list of five things you’re grateful for and then simply reflect on them during the day. Doing this even once a week can increase feelings of joy and gratitude and reduce symptoms of ill health.
Additionally, performing random acts of kindness is another way to promote happiness. Many of us have had the experience of receiving more joy spending money on others than on ourselves. God’s Word bears this out in Acts 20:35, where Paul states that the “Lord Jesus himself said: ‘It is more blessed to give than to receive.’” Simple gestures such as buying a friend a greeting card “just because” or a cup of coffee for a stranger can boost happiness levels. So, pay it forward.
It’s as much about the journey as the destination. Remembering to regularly do the things you already know are beneficial to your well-being; such as exercising daily, eating well, and getting enough sleep are essential. But developing new habits that will lead you to feel consistently better is the goal here; so, why not choose one or two above and try them. Your happiness will be the reward.
Most everyone has made banana bread at one time or another. In fact, you may already have your favorite banana bread recipe. Maybe you like it more moist, maybe you like it with walnuts… but chances are you haven’t tried a banana bread recipe from Ghana! Bananas are an important
by Joseph Anfuso I had no idea in the spring of 1980 that a two-day trip to Nicaragua would not only change the trajectory of my life, but cause me to reimagine Jesus’ commission in Mark 16:15: “Go into all the world and preach the gospel to every creature.” At
The rich flavors in Pilau Masala are a staple in Kenyan cooking, often mixed into rice. These flavors reflect Kenya’s diverse culinary landscape, showcasing a blend of indigenous African spices with those brought over by traders and settlers. We hope you enjoy this delectable spice mix as much as we
Jollof rice is THE signature meal of Ghana. The classic Jollof recipe varies a bit region to region (in fact, Ghana and Nigeria have a friendly ‘rivalry’ over whose jollof is better). It is made using tomatoes, peppers, onions and spices from the region and is often served alongside fish or fufu. In
9 yrs. old
Entered the program: October 2023
Aurora lives with her parents, 3 siblings, a cousin and her grandparents in her grandparents' house. Their furnishings are second-hand and old. Aurora's grandparents have a pension but it isn't even enough to cover the medication that they need.
Aurora’s mother has only a primary level education and doesn't work; she stays home to care for the family. Aurora's father works sometimes in construction or gardening but work is hard to find. The family struggles to make ends meet.
Aurora's sister, Liana, is also in the Corner Stone program.
Plus bonus group fundraising ideas!
