Be

If you want to be happy, be.

Leo Tolstoy

You’ll hear the same message from me over and over again—Happiness is an action verb and not simply a present tense. In other words, happiness requires a pro-active effort.

As per many of the conclusions from the scientific studies I’ve presented here in this blog, happiness is determined by three primary factors—1. a genetic proclivity toward this state of being and disposition, 2. advantageous or conducive circumstances, and perhaps most importantly, 3. a concerted effort.

For what comes naturally for some of us, doesn’t always come. You’ve got to meet happiness head on if you want to be happy more often than not.

That’s why the Constitution guarantees the right to pursue happiness and doesn’t simply guarantee happiness outright.

In Benjamin Franklin’s own words, “You have to catch it yourself.”

Happiness is never stopping to think if you are.

Palmer Sondreal