I had planned to write for one month only on one thing daily that made me happy, but I discovered something in the process of writing those “happy” posts. That simple decision to redirect my focus helped me to shift from all the negative events and occurrences in the world to the many people, places, and things in my life that bring me happiness, big and small. I turned my attention to what delights me rather than what distresses me and a mini-miracle happened, I felt lighter and less distressed. As someone who can wake up in the middle of the night to fret, I discovered that aiming away from what was wrong and toward what was right has had a righting effect on my psyche.

I added another twist to that approach by limiting my exposure to the news to only print journalism. I made a rule for myself that I had to read the news story online or in a newspaper, not see a newscast on television or listen to one on the radio. This has helped me to feel less overwhelmed with the pain in the world while still being aware of what is happening out there. Interestingly, I do not feel less informed. Instead, I feel less inclined to form a quick opinion, which I consider a move towards the positive. I understand all major issues have two sides and multiple dimensions to them. I want to ask more questions, get more thoughts on both sides of an issue, and try to put myself in the shoes of people on both sides. In short, I do not want to go straight to my usual knee-jerk opinion. I can’t help but think that is more on the positive side as well since the goal is to move away from reaction and toward understanding.

Consequently, I will continue through December with a daily blog on what makes me happy. I will also evaluate before the beginning of the new year what other topics might be useful in keeping me aimed in the direction of growth rather than heels-dug-in-the-sand stagnation. I have no idea what those topics may be, but I trust they will show themselves. If not, I’ll just keep going with my happiness posts. We will see.

Today, what makes me happy is to continue writing daily about something big or small that adds joy to my life. I find myself breathing deeper just knowing that I’ve made that decision. That suggests I am definitely going in the right direction.

I’ll chase happiness for a while. Maybe forever. Who knows? But I do know for right now, I’ll use my eyes, ears, taste, touch, and smell to report what brings even a small smile to my face. I think that is a worthy way to bring 2023 to a close.

I invite you to share some small aspect of life that makes you happy. You might inspire me to check that out. We might inspire each other to open up our worlds and let more happiness in . That would indeed be a lovely way to bring 2023 to a close.