Cultivating Intentional Happiness

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I have been going through a lot of changes recently: a new job, entering a new decade of life, cutting off all my hair (yes, that’s as major as the first two). So it’s become increasingly more important to cultivate Intentional Happiness.

I have a friend who does not believe in falling in love. Instead, she says you must walk into it, intentionally. I feel the same about certain emotions and happiness is certainly one of them. Intentional Happiness is a balancing act, because it requires you to find that exact combination of contentment with your current conditions while keeping your goals firmly in sight.

Content is not to be confused with complacent; instead, it is the rational choice to enjoy the present moment in time irrespective of the circumstances you wish to change.  

One bright sunny day in June, I realized I was on a project I found challenging, my boss had recently acknowledged my hard work, and the weather was amazing. And almost before I realized it, I had my Intentional Happiness.  At the same time, there was a new project I wanted to work on and I was working hard towards a promotion. My desire for the new project or to advance my career did not prevent me from experiencing Intentional Happiness on that very nice day.

What’s your best example of cultivating Intentional Happiness?

A Crossroads

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Hello friends:

The best place to begin as they say, is at the beginning. For me, that beginning is here, today, now, this second. It is no more wasted time, waiting for someone to recognize my hard work, my dedication, my drive. It is stepping in front of the speeding train, hand outstretched, because I know I can stop it. It is altered perceptions, owning my seat at the table.

In a word, confidence. In a word, excellence. In more words, it is the new standard I’m holding myself to, each and every day, in every part of my life.

If this all sounds dramatic, it is. I am at a crossroads, and the drama is necessary. Call it intervention, or whatever you like. We all have our bulls, and I name mine Exceptionality. In the days, weeks, lifetime to come, I will grab it by the horns and break it.

Name your bull. I dare you…and if you’re feeling especially bold, write it in the comments below.