If there’s one thing we all want, it’s to be happy. We can even say that we live our lives in pursuit of it. But sometimes, happiness can be a little hard to achieve- especially when we are having a bad day. And that’s ok- we all have those days that can never seem to go right. But just because everything seems to be going wrong for you doesn’t mean you can’t change that.

 The more time you spend getting to know yourself the better this will show you that happiness can indeed be a choice. And it’s one that you can make right now. So, if you want to feel happier and not let any outside factors bring you down then here are some steps to follow that will help you choose happiness.

 First Step: Start to Believe

I’m quite lucky. I can pick myself up when I need to with a click of my fingers. But I know, this is not the same for a lot of you. And that’s why I want to tell you that you can do anything. It’s  your mind, your body, and your choice. Remember that you are in control. I can understand that things can get a little crappy but it’s how you react to this that will say a lot about you.

 Believe always that the sky is the limit, what is thrown at you as a test-and it’s nothing you cannot handle. What’s bad now won’t be bad forever. We all possess a huge strength that can see us through anything-so use the same strength to allow you to feel happy. Start by understanding that things aren’t going to be 100% all of the time and anticipate it. That way when it comes around you can bounce back a lot quicker!

 Second Step: Put it in Perspective

One of my tricks is putting my life into perspective. Whenever something isn’t going right, always think it could be worse. Because it can. When you think about the world and all of its injustices it can make your problem seem so small in comparison. What you are feeling is justified but be grateful that you woke up this morning. For me, this is reason enough to snap my mood back to happy.

 I look around me and see what’s in front of me. I have a roof over my head, family to support me, and friends to cheer me up. If you have little, remember you always have someone or something and focus on that. Life is what you make it. By being grateful for what you have you will not concentrate on what you don’t. It’s easy to get caught up dreaming about where you want to be, but by focusing on what you lack makes you forget to count your blessings. Whilst ambition is a good thing, it needs a healthy serving of gratitude to keep you feeling good about life. It’s a practice that needs development, but it’s totally worth it.

 Third Step: Think about your Life

If something is persistently getting you down, whether it be your job or a friend then it’s time to make some really difficult decisions. In order to be happy, you have too constantly look at your life and let go of the things that are not only making you unhappy but are also holding you back. The process of letting go can bring unhappiness, but it is short-lived. Because in the end, you will be much happier. If this means a role that’s more suited to you or getting rid of that one friend who is always weighing you down then that time is now. Even something as simples as waking up earlier in the morning can make you feel better. Research tells us early risers feel more rested, are more motivated, focused and have better mental health. So, whether it’s the big things or the small things, you need to take a long look at your situation and what you can do to make it better. That way your life will not only be easier, but happier.

 So, let’s start today, let’s start it now, and let’s embrace happiness!