My Happiness Project

Over the past several weeks I have been reading The Happiness Project by Gretchen Rubin. I am very much enjoying it. Pages into the book I was in love with her idea. All of us set goals, try and improve, and want to be happy. There are a million and one theories out there guaranteeing happiness if you will just do this or that. The truth is, what makes each of us happy may not all be the same. As I read through Gretchen’s year exploring her own happiness I decided I needed to devise my own project. I have picked this coming year to work on my own happiness project. To work on things for me.

Gretchen had a very specific, measurable, and fine tuned plans before she started. I on the other hand have a list of ideas and hopes and plan to formulate my plan as I go. Each month working on a new goal (or in some cases a couple of small goals) in hopes of developing a habit, routine, or quality about myself or my life that will increase my happiness. The following month I hope to keep the previous months goals as well as working on new ones. Lofty endeavor sure, but something I am looking forward to. Hopefully breaking up my hopes and goals into small bite sized pieces I can manage this. She also has a few other ideas or tools that I may use as well (commandments and blank book are two of them). We will see what 2011 brings.

Beginning with January, I am working on my spirituality. Heaven knows this is a huge part of what leads to peace or discontent in my life. My relationship with my Father in Heaven, prayer, scripture and personal study have a huge impact on my day to day life. Sure it doesn’t make hard or difficult things go away, but my ability to cope and manage those things increases ten-fold when I am nurturing my spirituality. Besides, doesn’t it seem like I need a major prayer to stick with this? :)

January I will be focusing on my spirituality.

My goals:

• Pray at least twice a day. Make them meaningful, sincere, and take the time to ponder and listen afterward.
• Read my scriptures daily. Simple (or not as simple) as that.
• Take time for personal study and meditation. Studying talks, writing out feelings, making quiet time, and meaningful relaxation.

So there you have it. My new year is headed off with my Happiness Project.

What ideas and hopes do you have for the coming year ?

This is going to be a great year, I can feel it.

Want to pick up Gretchen’s book yourself? (I would totally recommend it if you're into this sort of thing) go here.
Want to check out her blog? Go here.