Happiness Project

So this week's "On My Radar" is a little different. Lately, I have been thinking a lot about what makes me happy. Most things are really simple, not complicated, and things I can often surround myself with. I think a lot of us, myself included, can easily get caught up in the negative. Whether it's negative self talk (I'm the WORST at this), complaining, and even gossiping. All of it is a major buzzkill and just toxic. So I wanted to share with you what makes me happy and by compiling this list, it gave me a chance to really think about just that.

Books and magazines. I love magazines so much, especially ones with unique content and gorgeous photography. It is hard to find books that immediately grab me, but when I do there is nothing better than getting completely wrapped up in it so much so that you cannot put the thing down. An insane cup of coffee. Sure I thought I wanted a Keurig like everyone else, but honestly the coffee isn't great. We bought a french press and take the extra time to brew ridiculous coffee on the weekends and it makes all the difference in the world. Finding pastimes you love. I have to credit my boyfriend to these two activities, but he has given me a love of playing darts and listening to records. I could do both for hours and it brings such joy and a I feel so relaxed while doing both.

This should come as no surprise but I have happily traded crazy nights out at packed bars for lower key nights in with friends. I absolutely love grilling and having cookouts, but it can be as easy as ordering pizza and hanging out that makes the best nights. Memory triggers. What I mean by that are things that bring me back to good times, places and people. I have an Archipelago candle that was made to smell like Charleston. I have had such good memories there, and each time I light it that good feeling comes right on back. I just started keeping a gratitude journal. Each day I write down the things that made me happy, the things I am grateful for, and the high of the day. The act of writing it all down really shifts perspective for me. Also, on crummy days I have something I can look back at to remind me that life really is good.

Last, but certainly not least, I think this is an age thing but boy do I appreciate a really really good cocktail. Not with crappy rail spirits, but with ones I like and can appreciate. The last time we "bar hopped" was only to places that handcraft insane cocktails. We weren't drinking to get drunk, but rather appreciating the delicious drinks. I also keep my favorite vodka at home and indulge in a real bay breeze from time to time (who knew that actual real juice and good vodka could taste so amazing?). Really it always comes back to the little things.

So there you have it, just a few things that make me really happy. I would love to know what makes you happy and how you stay positive.