Notes from a Psychologist
Dr. Mel Whitehurst

                      THESE IDEAS CAN MAKE YOU HAPPIER

Below, I have presented several suggestions that one could do to be happier.  Of course, no one will do all of them.  My proposal is to choose a few suggestions and carry them out with enthusiasm------you may find yourself happier.

MAKE A PERSONAL COMMITMENT TO NOTICE EVERYTHING THAT INSPIRES YOU. Consciously look for inspirations.  Something someone says or does, a book, an article in a magazine, a work of art among the many sources of inspiration that may encourage you to be more positive. 

KEEP ON THE SUNNY SIDE OF LIFE. Some people spend most of their lives looking for bad news.  It they can’t find in on their own, they will listen for somebody else’s bad news.  Don’t become one of those pessimist.  Instead keep on the sunny side of life.  Always be looking for the best possible outcome.  Tell yourself things will work out one way or the other.  If you consistently keep on the sunny side of life you will be happier

HAVE A BE POSITIVE WEEK.  This week I am going to attempt to be positive.  I’m getting rid of my normal cantankerousness and going up-tempo.  I’m putting a positive spin on just about everything.  No bah humbugs for seven full days.

Some words to use:  Wow!  Great job!  Stellar  Amazing  Awesome  Outstanding  Perfect  Fantastic Outstanding Great  Fabulous  Remarkable  Wonderful  Wondrous  Stupendous   Right on!  Nice job  Good going Good job  Nice work  Impressive  Terrific!  Aha! Unbelievable Splendid Excellent   Incredible  Spectacular  Splendid  You’re the best

PICK SOMETHING AND STAND UP FOR IT.  Look for a personal cause, something important to you in which you will stand up and act.  Remember that people are always happier when they take action.

“Each time a person stands up for an idea, or acts to improve the lot of others, or strikes out against injustice, she/he sends forth a tiny ripple of hope, and crossing each other from a million different centers of energy and daring, those ripples build a current that can sweep down the mightiest walls of oppression and resistance.” (Direct quote from Robert F. Kennedy)

STRENGTHEN YOUR STRENGTHS AND DISCOUNT LIMITATIONS.  Form the habit of strengthening strengths instead of overcoming weaknesses.  A famous football coach for the Dallas Cowboys once said that he always concentrated on strengthening his players’ strengths.  He maintained that the moment he concentrated on overcoming weaknesses he destroyed a player’s’ potential.  Nevertheless, do not overlook what is not working, but devote most of your energy in strengthening what is working.

SHOW GRATITUDE.  Let those you love know you appreciate and value them, that you are grateful to have them in your life.  People who express gratitude are happier.