"Joy is not in things, it is in us." -Charles Wagner
Practically since the beginning of civilization, philosophers have pondered what it means to be happy and to seek happiness. Recently I've taken time to ask myself the same question: What is it that truly makes me happy? When I'm financially strapped, the first thing that comes to mind is often money. But then the question becomes "if I could do anything with that money, what would it be?" I wouldn't be happy sitting on a pile of cash if I wasn't doing any of the things I love. For this reason, I decided to make a list of 20 (simple, low cost) things I love to do, and I encourage you to do the same (in fact, leave them as a comment if you're up for it)! It's refreshing to have handy for a rainy day, or when I need a pick-me-up.
Here's a list of activities that make me happy: 1. Reading the newspaper 2. Reading a book in my favorite coffee shop 3. Going to brunch with friends 4. Watching football on TV/Going to football games 5. Yoga (at home or in class) 6. Walking along the Marina 7. Thinking about my dreams and goals 8. Talking to friends 9. Going out to a nice meal and having a glass of wine 10. Volunteering 11. Dancing 12. Perusing used bookstores 13. Walking my dog 14. Watching cheesy reality tv shows 15. Going to baseball games 16. Going to the movies 17. Listening to music 18. Traveling 19. Camping 20. Making websites
So what is it that makes you happy?