Have you ever thought about what it takes to be really, truely happy? According to Rick Foster and Greg Hicks, authors of the book, “How We Choose to be Happy”, there are nine distinct internally driven choices that determine your level of happiness. Beginning with intention, individuals that are happy set an intention to be happy everyday. This intention is used as a guide to set the stage for decisions and actions that we take. Happy people are accountable for their thoughts, feelings and actions. They take 100% responsibility for their life. They identify what makes them happy. At the same time, they make what they have identified central to their lives. Happy people find meaning in their lives even when something devastating happens that could throw them off. They aren’t afraid to ask the question, “What can I learn from this?”. Happy people are flexible and are aware that there are many options to consider each day. With all these options, happy people appreciate everything and everyone. They are grateful for what life has given them. Happy people are givers without the expectation that they will receive something in return. And finally, happy people are truthful with themselves and others. All of these attributes of happy people need to be viewed from a synergistic perspective. When all of them are in alignment, you are calm, happy and in the flow of the universe. It is a process of daily mindfulness and taking the time to set the stage for happiness. Take the time to begin your journey to happiness. Have a great day.