Happiness in 2011

To live in the present and not worry about the future, nor dwell on the past.

That is my new year's resolution. It's what I say when people ask what I resolve to do in 2011, and then look at me, like, "ok...you're cool," when I respond. But, I don't care, because it's the truth. I have a tendency to worry and dwell, and I'm finally admitting it. As a matter of fact, I feel happier in 2011 already because I am working so hard on my resolution. There is no need to worry about that which I cannot change, nor dwell on what has already happened.

As a mother, a wife, and a fairly new resident to Charlotte, it is very easy to put everybody else's needs before my own. As Dante, in his Divine Comedy, writes, " Take henceforth your pleasure as your guide." I plan to do just that.

Real Simple magazine wrote several articles in their 2011 issue on exactly this. In her article, The History of Happiness, Marcia Menter writes, " ...even a short life is a very long journey, and we all need provisions for the trip. We need good food, good stories, and people to share them with. We need a sense of proportion and a sense of the absurd. We need to have as good a time as we can, because, otherwise, what's the point?"

Taken from that Real Simple article, here are my 9 mantras for 2011:

1.) "Chill out": colder temperatures boost your mood. I resolve to breathe it in...

2.)"Remember whence you came": I resolve to surround myself with nostalgic momentos and pictures so that I can always remember my history.

3.) "Don't dwell": it's just negative energy that soaks up my mental clarity. I resolve to move on.

4.)"Spread the wealth": I resolve to "treat" others more often

5.) "Eat a snack around 2pm": More afternoon energy? Yes, please!

6.) "Get a move on": I resolve to exercise at least 30 minutes a day, 3 days a week.

7.)"Limit your options": I resolve to be less indecisive.

8.) "Start baking" (i.e. learn something new): I resolve to expand my horizons. I'm taking a 4-week course on Modern dance!

9.) "Make your bed": Author Gretchen Rubin says, "People are happier when everyday tasks in their lives are complete." I resolve to make my bed, clean out my closet, and organize our house.

The happiness I have in life comes from the people I love, and who love me. I am so lucky to have my parents nearby, a loving, patient, and proactive husband, friends who I am finally feeling comfortable with, and the most adorable, loving, attentive, and patient-for-a-one-year-old son. Happiness comes from all of these things, but it's when they are taken for granted that you try to find something else. I know how fortunate I am. That is why I am not worrying or dwelling. I am staying in the present and taking each day as it comes...And, I am happy.