Achieving and Sustaining Personal Happiness

We live in a world that believes in postponing personal happiness exemplified by the following statements: I will be happy when I make $ 100,000 a year; I will be happy when I get my dream house; I will be happy when I retire.

Happiness isn't associated with wealth or riches. In my travels to different parts of the world, I found that the happiest people were often the poorest. They were thankful for the little they had and were free of worries, stress and anxiety.

Many of us believe that health and happiness are the most important things in our lives. As parents we wish for health and happiness for our children. There is no denying that the two are closely connected to one another. Unless you have good health, happiness is not fulfilled.

Happiness may mean different things to different people. Certain people receive happiness from hard work, while others can be totally fulfilled sitting by a stream with a fishing rod, or by reading a good book.

It proves that we are all unique and that we function at different levels of satisfaction and happiness. There are some tips I like to share that if put into effect will make most people happier.

Twelve ways to increase personal happiness

Practice laughing every day. Remember, if you don't use it, you're liable to lose it.

Practice smiling regularly. Your smile is your personal signature. It helps putting you in a happier frame of mind, as well as stimulating those around you to smile back.

Figure out what makes you happy and laugh. Make a list of things that trigger happiness and laughter for you. Keep the list handy and consult it when needed.

Hang out with happy people who enjoy laughing and can make you laugh. Happiness and laughter are contagious, so be sure to catch the wave.

Plan 'fun' and 'play' in your 'day-timer' or on your calendar. Don't plan work and busy times only. If you don't plan for fun and play, it won't happen.

Be kind to yourself. Don't use up all your available time without any breaks. Learn to say 'No' once in a while. Believe me the universe will continue even if you stop to smell the roses now and then.

Learn to laugh at yourself and your mistakes.

Look for the humor around you, bumper stickers, funny signs etc.

Share your embarrassing moments with friends. What was totally devastating at the time can be hilarious after the fact.

Recall some of the funny things that happened to you at the end of the day. Write them down and look them up when you're feeling down in order to give you a lift.

Don't be afraid to do something silly once in a while. Let the child, the clown within you escape and have some fun.

Practice optimism, because optimists are more successful and happier in life.

Gerry Hopman is a Humorist, Motivational Speaker and Author. He believes that humor, laughter and happiness are essential to finding balance in life. To find out more about Gerry, and the positive impact humor and laughter have on our lives and careers, visit his web site at:/www.humjor-laughter.com