How to be UP, no matter what's going DOWN!

One of the greatest spiritual leaders of our time, the Dalai Lama, said, “Happiness is not something ready made. It comes from your own actions.”

What actions are you taking to ensure your happiness? I don’t just mean following through to get things in your life right – like applying for jobs, working towards better housing, or improving your relationships. I mean, what are you doing with your MIND to ensure that you’re UP, no matter what’s going DOWN? Because every action we take first comes from our thoughts.

We have to work at a happy mind. Sometimes this is the most productive thing you can do.

Haven’t you encountered people who, despite very bad situations on the outside, still kept a great attitude? Strength and happiness of mind can be our most reliable and powerful tool – something that we can use in any situation, at all times, and that will always help us.

So, how do we get closer to happiness? How do we work towards a better mind, which will help us produce better outcomes?

First, try slowing down enough to be aware of how you’re thinking. Even just taking 5 minutes to evaluate your thinking at the end of the day is a good way to start. When you recognize a negative mind, don’t focus on it or feel guilty, simply set it aside, knowing it will not serve you. Remember, if you can change something, you will, so there’s no reason to be upset. And if you can’t change something, it still won’t help to be upset. Try to cultivate positive feelings of acceptance, patience, gratitude, and humility, no matter what the situation. These are perfect antidotes to problems. Again, try to get more familiar with minds of acceptance, patience, gratitude, and humility. The more you are able to keep these qualities in your mind and heart, the further you’ll travel down a path of happiness!