February is the month of love. That may seem like a pretty big leap after a year of epic challenges. Roses, chocolates, and Valentine’s Day cards. What?! You say you’re not feeling the love this year? You’re burned out and cynical about the whole love thing? Why not be your own Valentine?!
Research on happiness in America suggests that the more you go looking for happiness, the less likely you are to find it. That’s why holidays that emphasize “love” and “happiness” can actually make us feel worse. In fact, one study states that “Americans desperately wanting to be happy is linked with lower psychological health.” In the U.S., happiness is often seen as an individual pursuit: chasing fame, money or the perfect mate, buying stuff and expecting that to lead to happiness, etc. That sets us up for a lifetime of letdowns. Real life, it turns out, is rarely like a Hallmark card. The good news is that there’s a science-backed method to help you feel happier, and you can do it all by yourself!
- Schedule fun. Intentionally schedule simple things in your day that are likely to bring about positive emotions—like calling a friend, or gardening. You’ll have more happy feelings and fewer symptoms of depression.
- Shift your perspective. Science reveals that when people prime themselves to regard their time as limited, they want to feel serene happiness more than excited happiness. Try valuing calmness more, and you’ll naturally seek out relaxing activities…. which don’t require the presence of others.
- Stay present. Listen to music, pet an animal, walk on the beach. Set all your expectations aside and just experience what shows up.
- Lower your expectations. Expecting big fun often leads to the opposite. It’s perfectly fine to pleasantly anticipate an occasion but stay focused on the intention of the event rather than the details.
- Savor great moments. Appreciate and relive wonderful moments even after they’re over. Absorbing yourself in a positive experience strongly predicts higher levels of happiness.
Of course, all this boils down to loving yourself, first and foremost. After all, it is only then that we can love others, or invite love into our lives. Now, go buy yourself some flowers!
QUOTES TO REMEMBER
Hello, welcome to Flight #2021.
We are prepared to take off into the New Year. Please make sure your Attitude and Blessings are secured and locked in an upright position. All self-destructive devices should be turned off at this time. All negativity, hurt, and discouragement should be put away. Should we lose altitude under pressure, during the flight, reach up and pull out your affirmations and mantras. Affirmations will automatically be activated by Energy. Once your Energy is activated you can assist other passengers. There will be NO BAGGAGE allowed on this flight. The Captain of your beautiful life has cleared us for takeoff. Have a healthy 2021 flight.
Destination: Your Best Life
This was shared with me by my dear friend, Pat. Author Unknown.
NOTE FROM LINDA
February is special to me. I celebrate my anniversary and Valentine’s Day (on the same day), as well as the birthdays of several loved ones.
So, as part of my celebration, consider this my love letter to you: my family, friends, clients, and fellow seekers. You are important beyond measure. I learn from you and grow because of you. Thank you for being part of my life. I’m honored to share with you and to be of service to you.
