The idea of happiness is often molded by society, says Marla Ahlgrimm. In some countries, a woman might feel happy if she survives childbirth – this is simply something we expect in the United States. Other women might believe the source of their happiness is their career or their creativity. The point is that happiness takes many shapes and forms, but there are things that all women can do to enjoy their own version. Here are a few tips:
Remind yourself of all the positives in your life.
Marla Ahlgrimm believes in waking up each morning thankful for the first glimpse of sunlight. Little things like this can help us appreciate the bigger picture. Take the time to evaluate your surroundings every day and inventory all of the things that make your heart feel alive. This might be something as simple as having a clean bowl and spoon to eat your cereal; whatever does not cause sadness is a happy inclusion to your day.
Look for ways to turn misery into joy.
Even in the darkest circumstances, there are ways to see the light. According to Marla Ahlgrimm, there are very few situations that have nothing but a negative income. The ripple effect, which is the idea that every action spawns another action, which spawns another action, and so on into perpetuity, can eventually mold something terrible into something wonderful. You may have to dig deep, but positives are there.
Don’t rely on others for your own happiness.
As women, we tend to value ourselves based on those around us. But true happiness comes from within. It can never be found with a partner, for example, only amplified. Marla Ahlgrimm stresses that women must be comfortable and content with themselves to experience the full joy of other meaningful relationships.
