I know this might sound like an unpopular opinion, but I believe happiness is a choice. It might seem impossible, especially when you’re going through tough times. You might be thinking, how can I be happy when so much is out of my control? Or maybe you’ve felt like happiness is something that others get to experience, but not you.
I get it. It can seem like happiness depends on things outside of us, like other people, work, or our situation. And when we’re dealing with things like sadness, heartbreak, or stress, it’s hard to believe that happiness can be a choice.
But here’s the thing: life is full of challenges, big and small. Happiness isn’t just something that happens when everything is perfect. It’s something we can choose, even when life is tough. Yes, it’s hard to believe when you’re struggling, but it’s still true.
Why This Might Feel Like an Unpopular Opinion
There are reasons why some people might not agree with the idea that happiness is a choice. Let’s look at a few of them:
Mental health struggles: If you’ve ever dealt with things like sadness or worry, it can feel like happiness is out of reach. The heaviness of those feelings can make it hard to imagine happiness.
Life events: Going through tough times, like losing someone you care about, breaking up with a partner, or money problems, can make happiness seem impossible. It can feel like it’s only for people who have it easier.
Feeling stuck: If you feel disconnected from yourself or life doesn’t seem to have much good in it, it’s easy to think that happiness is just not possible.
These feelings are real, and I understand that. When life is hard, it’s tough to think about finding happiness. But choosing happiness doesn’t mean ignoring your struggles. It means seeing where you are, feeling your emotions, and then deciding how you want to respond.
Why Happiness is Still a Choice
Choosing happiness doesn’t mean everything will be perfect, and it doesn’t mean your struggles will disappear. It means that, even when things are hard, you get to decide how you see them and how you react. That’s where the shift happens.
For example, you can choose to focus on small things that bring you peace, like a warm drink or a quiet moment outside. You can choose to notice the small moments of calm, joy, or hope, even when the big things are tough. And if you make that choice every day, it can make a difference over time.
The Power of Perspective
One of the best tools we have to choose happiness is how we look at things. It’s all about perspective. Life might be tough, but how we choose to see it can change how we feel.
For example, if we focus on what we’re thankful for, we begin to see more of the good in life. It could be a nice conversation with a friend or the beauty of the sky. When we take a moment to appreciate those little things, it can help us shift our mindset.
Choosing happiness isn’t about everything being perfect. It’s about being kind to yourself, acknowledging your feelings, and choosing to move forward with a positive attitude.
Practicing Mindfulness
Mindfulness is another great way to choose happiness. It means paying attention to how you feel right now, in the present moment. This can help you become more aware of your emotions and give you more control over how you respond.
Taking a few minutes each day to stop, breathe, and be present can help you feel more in control of your emotions. Whether it’s through a short meditation, a walk outside, or just sitting quietly, mindfulness can help you feel more grounded and happy.
Overcoming Negative Habits
We all have habits that can make it harder to choose happiness. Whether it’s focusing on the bad things, comparing ourselves to others, or expecting everything to be perfect, these habits can hold us back.
The good news is that we can change these habits. With practice and self-awareness, we can shift our negative thoughts into more positive ones. Here are a few ways to get started:
Be kinder to yourself: It’s okay to have tough days. Don’t be too hard on yourself.
Limit social media: Comparing yourself to others can take away your happiness. Focus on your own life.
Challenge negative thoughts: When you notice yourself thinking something negative, try replacing it with something more positive.
Changing these habits takes time, but even small changes can make a big difference.
Small Actions That Lead to Big Joy
You don’t have to make big changes to feel happier. It’s often the small things that make the biggest impact. Here are some simple habits to try:
Start your day with gratitude: Each morning, think of three things you’re thankful for. It can set a positive tone for the day.
Make time for things you enjoy: Whether it’s reading, having coffee, or spending time with people you love, make time for activities that bring you joy.
Surround yourself with positive people: The people you spend time with can affect how you feel. Spend time with people who lift you up.
These small actions, when done regularly, can help shift your mindset and bring more happiness into your life.
It’s Okay to Not Feel Happy All the Time
Choosing happiness doesn’t mean you have to feel happy all the time. It means giving yourself permission to feel your emotions without judging yourself, and then making the choice to focus on something positive. It’s not about pretending everything is fine when it’s not. It’s about finding peace and joy, even when life is hard.
I know that sometimes life can feel overwhelming. But even on the hardest days, you can choose how to respond. Whether it’s taking a moment to breathe, focusing on a positive thought, or getting support, choosing happiness is about finding ways to create space for joy, even when things feel heavy.
At the end of the day, choosing happiness is a journey. It’s not about being happy all the time or pretending things are perfect. It’s about finding ways to look for joy and peace, even in tough times.
If you’re ready to take the next step in shifting your mindset and aligning your life with your goals, I’d love for you to explore my Aligned & Empowered Membership.
This membership is here to help you find peace, change your mindset, and feel stronger in creating a life that feels true to you. With personalised meditations and support, we can work together to bring more joy, purpose, and happiness into your life—no matter what’s going on around you. You can connect with me through any of the platforms listed below.
So, how will you choose happiness today? It starts with one small step.
XO, Leanne
Your Soul Expansion Starts Here 
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