I want to be happy, you want to be happy — everyone wants to achieve this mysterious state of bliss. Happinessbinds the entire universe together. The actions and motives of every living human being are driven by our desire for it. But what sets apart the truly happy tribe from others is that they've made the conscious choice to be happy. Happy people have learned that happiness starts with ourselves; specifically, it sprouts from our thoughts. With just a couple thoughts, you too can join the tribe of happy people all over the world! Start with these five: 1. This too shall pass. When we're in the throes of a powerful emotion or situation, life can feel bleak and hopeless. When life pushes you down — whether you're dealing with a broken heart, a bruised ego, or an embarrassment — you can counter any thoughts coming up with this one thought: This too shall pass. This thought takes the permanence out of the negative emotion or situation and creates space to see the light at the end of the tunnel. Grow your wisdom: Life is in a constant state of flux, and everything will pass. 2. You are not alone. It's common to get our feet stuck in deep and dark mental places. In dealing with disease, divorce, death or downsizing, it's easy to become consumed by your grief, and it's easy to feel like no one has ever felt as bad as you might feel right now. Guess what? Someone else has — practically every living being has felt that exact emotion at one time or another. You are never alone. Emotions are like storms; no matter how dark and turbulent, they'll clear and sunny skies will rise again. 3. Other people have good intentions. It's easy to think the worst of others. I'm guilty of this, but really it's just my own mind being pessimistic and negative. This pessimism set me off into an unpleasant mental spin. Try thinking of others in a positive light. Assume that they have good intentions. Appreciate and savor your relationshipsand the love you have to give and receive from others. 4. There's a bright side to every situation. Changing your perspective can do wonders for your mood and for the mood of those around you. Let's say you begrudgingly must spend the day driving to a distant appointment; instead of grumbling the entire way there, look on the bright side. It might be a beautiful day for a drive! Enjoy the fresh air and listen to some music. There's always a bright side. So find it and drive out those negative thoughts. Happiness is here right now. In fact it's never been anywhere else but here. Clear the dark storm clouds and rediscover the bright blue sky waiting underneath. Now smile. It’s not so bad. 5. Slow down and breathe. Actually, say this aloud in your head over and over throughout the day. Slow down and just breathe. We need this constant reminder. Focus on one thing at a time try to infuse each moment with your attention and presence. Without conscious breathing your life will become riddled with anxiety and turmoil. Make your day a moving meditation.
By Strive Masiyiwa A few weeks ago I went to the doctor. I will tell you what he said about my health at the end, but first read this: Twenty years ago, I arranged to meet a well-known British international businessman who invested a lot in Africa at the time. We agreed to meet for dinner at a leading hotel in London. After a good meeting, we started to walk out of the restaurant when he suddenly collapsed in the lobby. There was total pandemonium as they rushed to get medical assistance. Being London, an ambulance arrived in minutes. I jumped in the back with him as paramedics wrestled to keep him alive. He had had a heart attack and had to have triple bypass heart surgery. Sadly he died a few weeks later. He hadn't been sick and his sudden death surprised everyone. And yet as I reflected on it, and later discussed it with a doctor friend who knew him, I realized he was very laid back about his health despite having a hectic business life. Even during our dinner...
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