by Laura Leigh Fields

Created on: December 12, 2008   Last Updated: January 13, 2009

For years, many people have searched for the meaning of happiness. They have looked at financial, political, and emotional aspects. They have considered many simple factors in the process. Still, they come up empty handed. What these people don't always realize is that true happiness varies within each person but it lives inside us all.

The secret to discovering what truly makes you happy is a lot easier than you think. Happiness is learning to be thankful for the little things. There are many simple ways that you can go about this.

Set goals.

What does it take to make you happy? Make a list of the things that you want to achieve or items that you will need. Once you have pinpointed those things, come up with steps that will help you obtain your goals. Set aside time each day to work on these things.

Make daily lists.

Every day, make a list of what you are thankful for. Remember the things both big and small that you are grateful for. Your list can be as simple or as complicated as you choose for it to be. Each day, it is likely that your list will vary yet it will help you put things into perspective.

Help those that are less fortunate than you.

There is a lot of need in the world and any little effort can make a big difference. You can volunteer at a local charity, help raise funds, or donate items that you are no longer using. Helping others will help you realize just how lucky you are. It will also give you a warm feeling deep inside that can't be described with words.

Take care of what you have.

Rather than wishing you had a new home or car, improve on the ones that you do have. Changing the way something looks can often take away the feelings of dread you get when you look at it. Redecorate things or move items around. This can make old things seem new again and will give you a happier outlook.

Take the time to enjoy what you already have.

It is okay to stop and smell the flowers rather than spending all your time weeding out the garden. Rather than pushing old clothes to the back of the closet and buying new ones, wear them again and remember how good you used to feel when you adorned those things. The items that you have are for your enjoyment; bask in them as often as you can.

Love life for what it is. Use your lemons to make lemonade. Remember that there is a bright side behind every corner you just must be willing to look for it. When life gets you down, think about whom you are and how far you have come. These thoughts will bring the happiness bubbling from your soul.

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