"...they lived happily ever after" Is that just for fairy tales?
In 20+ years of teaching art to adults, I've seen major life transitions successfully weathered. Happiness lost and regained. I've distilled these into the following article and wish that it makes the happiest and best Christmas and holiday season for you.
Arts
No matter what life has thrown at you, whatever the barrier to enjoying life has been in the past, you have the power to identify it, fire it, and replace it with something good.
You can live happily ever after. You deserve to. Let the sun shine in and get strength from the following checklist to your happily ever after life.
1. LIVE WITH A POSITIVE ATTITUDE STARTING NOW
a. One thing everyone agrees on, especially after 18, life is short. Nothing and no one has the right to deprive you of the joy of living a full life every day.
b. Appreciate the time, health and creative spirit you do have as uniquely special.
c. Don't listen to negativity, from the TV, or anyone. Believe in yourself, in your basic good. Find out what can be done to solve any problem standing in the way of a better self. Enlist family or friends to work through it, as quickly as possible.
d. It's alright to ask for help from above. God always listens and has time for you.
2. EACH DAY IS A CREATIVE OPPORTUNITY--ARE YOU HAVING FUN YET?
a. If money could buy happiness, all Lottery winners should be ecstatic, right? Happiness is not buyable, or passive. You create it. It's a by-product of believing in yourself and doing good for someone else, as in the short story, "The Gift of the Maji", by O. Henry.
b. This may sound corny, but it's often the simple, overlooked things that make a whole, satisfying day. Make it a point to to do a good deed daily, just be polite, or encourage someone. See how good that makes you feel! You will find a slice of every day where you can give a little, and that will give you a lift as well.
c. Be considerate and patient with yourself and others. Keep your sense of humor and do your best. Happiness is both a journey and a destination.
3. YOU ARE THE EXPERT ON YOU
a. In the rush to "be somebody", have you put aside "you"-- that one gift that makes you special? Identify that something you enjoyed doing so much you lost track of time; and,
b. Take the time to develop it. Working toward that goal will be satisfying in itself, so enjoy it!
4. PUT YOUR TIME AND TALENT AT THE SERVICE OF OTHERS
a. Do a little research and find your "happiness" home. Where does your gift fit? The place or group where you are comfortable, appreciated, and can share with others on a continuing basis.
b. Prefer one-on-one? Available just to listen? Listening is truly a lost art. So many children and adults in schools and hospitals are desperate to talk to someone.
5. GIVE YOURSELF A REPORT CARD
a. Be open, flexible and look for ways to challenge your new self to new heights.
So, how do you like you so far? Too busy having fun? Sounds like you're living "happily ever after!"
Live Happily Ever After Checklist - 5 Simple Steps
J.S. Staffier, MLS, MFA, is an artist and art educator in the Boston area.
Watercolors of Boston, Portraits, Children's books: "CASEY THE BEACON HILL CAT", plus her new DVD: "JANE'S DRAWING STUDIO" is available from her site: http://www.BostonArtBoutique.com or email: irish4boston@yahoo.com