My Fascination with Happiness Led to Personal Commandments

I have always been described as a happy smiling person. When I was a little girl I remember my Mother's friends at church commenting on my smile. Now that I am no longer a little girl (at least on the outside) I gravitate to people and things that make me happy! This little cartoon was floating around Facebook - without an author (if anyone knows the source please let me know). I love it because it is simple and so right!

You can imagine my delight to find a book all about happiness! I was ready for a quick read and a quick dose of tips about creating happiness. (Note: this is an affiliate link. See my disclosure.)


Was I ever wrong. This was not a quick read for me. This was a savor every single chapter type of book. It totally appealed to my analytical side with up-teen examples from  Gretchen Rubin's research and personal stories! I was in HEAVEN. Of course I love words (most writers do) and she appealed to me as a reader with definitions and the bonus of antonyms (opposite meanings). She also had me hooked with her organization. My many years as a technical writer trained my brain to look for headings, bullet points, and structure that tells me I can depend on the content to unfold in a logical manner. 

I read a lot of books - many are in the self help category and others are "escape" fiction. This book - was exceptional - it inspired me to journey with Gretchen. She shared her Personal Commandments and how they influence her life and happiness. What a terrific idea!

I created my personal commandments and have printed and displayed them in my play (office/craft/sewing) room. 

My Personal Commandments (composed January 29, 2019)

1. Be Esther
2. Challenge ANTs (automatic negative thoughts)
3. Capture memories
4. Accept others
5. Finish projects
6. Learn and grow
7. See the little
8. See the big
9. Recognize seasons
10. Look for fit
11. Pass it on
12. Go outside

Following commandments 3, 6, and 9, I am once again blogging!