The Happiness Project

First off, a huge congratulations to my husband, Ken Natori, for debuting his guitar work and performing at his first concert/recital this past weekend. He is extremely talented; with a clear, beautiful voice and wicked guitar skills. I am in awe of his ability to learn something new (he started taking guitar lessons less than 1.5 years ago!!! UNBELIEVABLE!!!), commit to a hobby, practice and rehearse, and have the courage to perform in front of a group of people. Check out two of his songs here. (Dedicated post coming later this week with embedded videos). I can’t stop smiling as I think of his success, spunk, ambition, and talent. Bravo, Babers!

Hunky hubby.

As cheesy as it may sound, I have been writing in a gratitude journal since January 1st, and I already see a shift that has taken place in my own brain. Everyday, I simply write one or two sentences on what has made me happy that day. It is as little as “It is no longer 16 degrees” or as general as “seeing the simple and pure joy of watching Cruzzie play in the ocean.” These simple, little thoughts written down at the end of the day, have really helped me appreciate all that I have and count many of my blessings in life. Total sap, but reflecting has changed my perspective and enhanced my life greatly. (And the professionals agree, too!)

Excerpt. Ball of cheese!!!

I am especially fond of “The Happiness Project Journal” as it is a one sentence space everyday for 5 years. 365 days, 5 years, (1,825 moments captured.) In this journal, you simply turn to the date, read a quote and thought on life / happiness, and jot down one sentence (or words). The next year, you return to the exact date and write what you are thankful for on that given date.

The Happiness Project journal.

Writing only one or two sentences is manageable, and provides you with a sense of accomplishment. Then, when you return the following years, you are able to see how your blessings have evolved and reflect on that day. I am already excited about doing it again next year and seeing what I thought / loved / reflected on the previous year!

Quotes at top of page. A minute of deep thought.

I fully believe that acknowledging what I am thankful for makes me a happier and more fulfilled person. There has been a lot of research on the psychology behind it; but I can tell you firsthand, that it has changed me in the 2 months of doing it. It only takes a minute, but I sit and think about what I am thankful for that day — and there is so much to be thankful for — but just the simple acknowledgement causes a shift, a change, and a deeper, fuller perspective.  The Power of Gratitude. Listen and read here.

Even when I travel, I transport this book around so I can quickly and thoughtfully (in the minute) write down my gratitude.

Another interesting link on gratitude is here. To see a movie on happiness, go here. To see how gratitude improves your health, go here.

Chilling.

So hop on the Happy Bandwagon, and simply write down (in a journal or on paper) what you are thankful and grateful for that given day, and you will feel good. Trust me, it is a life changer. And THANK YOU for reading this blog, allowing this journey to take place, and allowing me to share a little slice of my life with all of you. Extremely grateful for you all.

P.S. as I am sure many of you have seen on social media this past week, here is a profoundly beautiful speech by Lupita Nyong’o on beauty. HIGHLY recommend watching it.