Today’s the deadline for your May Pain-Blog Carnival submission.

Ready for a challenge?

1. Name 3 good things about today.
2. Next, name 3 bad things about today.

Which was easier for you?

You might think that being an optimist and finding the good in life is a trait you either have or don’t have.  That you were born with either a sunny ‘Optimist’ cloud, or a dark, rainy ‘Pessmisist’ cloud permanently over your head.  Or, perhaps since having pain, that proverbial glass has seemed less and less full.

Well, you’re not stuck being unhappy.

So says James Baraz, a meditation instructor who teaches the class Awakening Joy.  This course teaches what practices can lead you towards happiness and well-being.  What are the secrets?

1.  Make a decision to be happy.  In other words, make happiness your intention or focus.  “Whatever you focus on will become more apparent and grow.”

And the tools that Baraz encourages us to use?

2.  Write what the word joy means to you.  Then use this information to cultivate more joy.

3.  Do some form of physical movement – yoga, dance, walking, etc.

4.  Make a list of activities you enjoy and do a few each week.

5.  Pair up with a “joy buddy” – someone with whom you can share your journey to become more joyful.

Hmmm…  that glass is looking more full, isn’t it?  What practice could you incorporate today?

A previous article you might like:  Are banana-split jelly bellies the key to happiness?

Source:  O, The Oprah Magazine, January 2008