“Studies in positive psychology have shown that when people know what their strengths are, and intentionally use them in their day-to-day life, they tend to feel greater happiness,” says Dr. Iskandar.
“Look into your strengths and find ways to use them,” encourages Stretton. “Find things that interest you. Perhaps it’s music or cooking. We all have strengths; some of us just need to discover them!”
When the weight of the world weighs heavily on your shoulders, three things matter: Family, health, and faith. Those who’ve been there know.
“Finish each day and be done with it. You have done what you could. Some blunders and absurdities no doubt crept in; forget them as soon as you can. Tomorrow is a new day; begin it well and serenely and with too high a spirit to be encumbered with your old nonsense. ” ~ Ralph Waldo Emerson
“The man/woman is a success who has lived well, laughed often, and loved much; who has gained the respect of intelligent men/women and the love of children; who has filled his niche and accomplished his task; who leaves the world better than he found it, whether by an improved poppy, a perfect poem, or a rescued soul; who never lacked appreciation of earth’s beauty or failed to express it; who looked for the best in others and gave the best he had.”
Life is made up of a few moments all strung together like pearls. Each moment is a pearl, and it is up to us to pick the ones with the highest luster. If we do not have time to do great things, take a few gentle moments and do small things in a great way. —author Joyce Hilfer
“If you are depressed you are living in the past if you are anxious you are living in the future, if you are at peace, you are living in the present.” —Lao Tzu
“Never be in a hurry; do everything quietly and in a calm spirit. Do not lose your inner peace for anything whatsoever, even if your whole world seems upset.” —Saint Francis de Sales
Choose activities that are virtuous and meaningful, rather than obsessing about feeling good all the time. Hedonism won’t necessarily make you happy, even if you feel good in the moment. If we pursue pleasure, it shouldn’t be at the expense of living a meaningful life. We also need to pursue a purpose, and practice forgiveness, gratitude, and generosity—those give us a sense of competence, autonomy, and connection, which are core human needs.
When one door closes another door opens. Whether it be the end of a relationship, job, or the unfortunate passing of someone close to you, there is always another door that opens. Focus on the opportunities that you have. Ask yourself: What can I know create for myself in my relationships or career? Where can I move? What can I do that I haven’t done before? Focus on the possibilities.
Whatever you’re going through is also being experienced by millions of others. If we can recognize our shared humanity—that not one of us is perfect—we can begin to feel more connected to others, with a sense that we’re all in this together. “So many people believe they’re ‘broken’ or ‘screwing up, when in actuality we’re all fumbling our way through this script-less existence together.
