“People were always the limiters of happiness except for the very few that were as good as spring itself.” – Ernest Hemingway, A Moveable Feast
As my colleague Cornelius and I pondered this quote, thinking about people in our lives who are “as good as spring itself,” we found that they all shared common qualities or traits.
Today, we want to write about the traits that we appreciate in people who, above all else, are kind and good. People who are genuinely happy.
Happiness requires resiliency. We’re always amazed at how loved ones, through thick and thin, find ways to carry on and enjoy life. We love listening to their stories of perserverance through tough times.
Happiness isn’t about perfection but conquering challenges. Like couples who say they are happily married… does that mean their marriage is problem free? No. They’ve just learned how to maximize their relationship and have figured out how to overcome barriers to their happiness.
Smiling and laughing through it all. One of the toughest things to do is smile and maybe even find humor in really tough times. You may have heard the phrase, “laughter is the best medicine.” There’s a lot of truth to that. I’m not a doctor, but I think it’s safe to prescribe a hearty chuckle the next time you’re feeling down.
When stress is high, Cornelius and I look to comedy for relief. Take time to laugh, even if it’s at yourself. You’ll feel better.
Great-big-hugs when meeting and parting ways. Studies show that giving or receiving hugs can be beneficial to your overall health. We’ve all felt the “awesomeness” of hugs – the kind of embrace that makes you feel loved, makes you feel safe, makes you feel at home.
Permission not needed. Happy (really happy) people don’t limit their actions by seeking the approval of others. They just ARE happy. Be happy.
What characteristics do you recognize in people who are genuinely happy? Try to remember these things when you’re not so happy. If you’re looking for work or hoping to change a current situation, try to approach everything with a positive, optimistic outlook. It just might help.
Josie Toth is a Regional Facilitator for Workforce Solutions. She facilitates job search skills and career exploration classes in the 13-county Houston-Galveston area. She has a Bachelor of Arts in Liberal Studies and enjoys encouraging others in their pursuit of meaningful work.
Cornelius Booker is a senior member of the Regional Navigator team and a graduate of Oklahoma State University where he received his Bachelors in Marketing and later received his M.B.A with a focus on Business Marketing and Management. With his personal experience and passion for the disabled community, Cornelius’ insights are an invaluable asset to the Workforce Solutions organization.
blogforce.wrksolutions.com 