First Happiness Boost

My friend, Bill, has more creative currents flowing than anyone I know. We have a great time together.

One day when I was talking about having to do yard work, he said, "What if, instead of saying 'I have to garden,' you said 'I get to garden?' What would happen?"

Me: "What a great shift in thinking! If I always said 'I get to' instead of 'I have to,' I'd feel less trapped by my circumstances and more thankful for my opportunities."

Bill: "So what's your take on gardening now?"

Me: "I feel lucky that my body and mind are in good enough shape to garden. It's not feeling like an obligation, but a privilege."

This encounter, which lasted no more than two minutes, changed my outlook and made me a happier person. Now, when I start thinking "I have to do" something, I say "I get to." Think of at least two things you tell yourself you have to do. Shift your thinking to the idea that you get to do them. How does that simple shift of thinking affect your happiness?

Next, try "The Ten Commitments" for growing happiness or "The Happiness Prayer".

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		First Happiness Boost My friend, Bill, has more creative currents flowing than anyone I know. We have a great time together. One day when I was talking about having to do yard work, he said, "What if, instead of saying 'I have to garden,' you said 'I get to garden?' What would happen?" Me: "What a great shift in thinking! If I always said 'I get to' instead of 'I have to,' I'd feel less trapped by my circumstances and more thankful for my opportunities." Bill: "So what's your take on gardening now?" Me: "I feel lucky that my body and mind are in good enough shape to garden. It's not feeling like an obligation, but a privilege." This encounter, which lasted no more than two minutes, changed my outlook and made me a happier person. Now, when I start thinking "I have to do" something, I say "I get to." Think of at least two things you tell yourself you have to do. Shift your thinking to the idea that you get to do them. How does that simple shift of thinking affect your happiness? Next, try "The Ten Commitments" for growing happiness or "The Happiness Prayer". top/ home