How to be Happy

Would you believe it? More than 100 years ago, Robert Louis Stevenson, Poet, Novelist & Essayist (1850 -1894) offered the following tips for maintaining a positive attitude. And they still are more than relevant today. We might be living in a very fast environment but many values of life still remain the same. Take a few minutes to refresh your thoughts on How to be Happy!

1. Make up your mind to be happy. Learn to find pleasure in simple things.
2. Make the best of your circumstances. No one has everything, and everyone has something of sorrow intermingled with gladness of life. The trick is to make the laughter outweigh the tears.
3. Don't take yourself to seriously. Don't think that somehow you should be protected from misfortune that befalls other people.
4. You can't please everybody. Don't let criticism worry you.
5. Don't let your neighbour set your standards. Be yourself.
6. Do the things you enjoy doing but stay out of debt.
7. Never borrow trouble. Imaginary things are harder to bear then real ones.
8. Since hate poisons the soul, do not cherish jealousy, enmity, grudges. Avoid people who make you unhappy.
9. Have many interests. If you can't travel, read about new places.
10. Don't hold post-mortems. Don't spend your time brooding over sorrows or mistakes. Don't be one who never gets over things.
11. Do what you can for those less fortunate than yourself.
12. Keep busy at something. A busy person never has time to be unhappy.

I found this in an annual publication produced by the children and staff at Killyhommon Primary School, Boho. A Diary 2010 of Inspirational Thoughts. If you would like a copy for just £5 get in touch with info@killyhommonps.enniskillen.ni.sch.uk