Life can hand us some amazing things, good and bad. Often, we feel that we're not in control of our own destiny, that others are making all the decisions for us. But one way we can decide something for ourselves is to improve our level of happiness.
 
What are some ways to make yourself happier?

• Be grateful. You may have lost many things throughout life: friends, family members, pets, home, possessions. But sit down and write a list of things that you can be grateful for today. Maybe it was a favorite dessert served at mealtime. Did someone smile at you when you were picking up your mail? Though you might have physical problems, focus on the parts of your body and mind that are still working. Try to find something new to be thankful for each day and go back and read the list now and then.

 

• Give yourself a pep talk. Your parents, teachers, spiritual leaders and coaches were once responsible for encouraging you and urging you on, but now you can do it yourself. Find positive phrases, like "You can do it," or "Look how well you've done!" and repeat them as many times a day as you can.

 

• Have a laugh. Find a friend or group who likes to have a good time, and join in. Watch a comedy program or movie that really gives you belly laughs. Read a joke book! Do something absolutely silly, like blowing bubbles. "Laughter is the best medicine" isn't just an old saying. Doctors say that laughter is part of healing treatments.

 

• Get some puppy love. Sharing love with a pet can improve health and happiness. If you can't keep one of your own, visit someone who does have a friendly pup or kitten. Even watching nature shows on television about cute animals or zoo care can cheer you up.

 
If you are feeling seriously sad, for no obvious reason, do consult a medical professional. "Just cheer up" is no help for clinical depression. But for the little ups and downs of daily life, we can do a lot to improve our happiness.
 
Charlene Frazier 
Community Coordinator, Residence 600
600 E. Elm, Salina KS 67401
785-822-1300
residentservices.600@gmail.com

 
Whether you live in a senior living facility, a studio apartment, or your own home, there are ways you can turn the space into something that reflects your personality and makes you happy. Small spaces can be a challenge, especially if you are used to a larger home, but a little creativity goes a long way.

• Change what you can. You might not be in control of the texture of the walls or ceilings, or the color of your cabinets, but you can choose some things yourself. A floral bedspread or a painting in bold, bright colors will make your room cheerful and show your tastes. Even a pretty shower curtain can do a lot to perk up a clinical-looking bathroom.

 

• Less can be more. After collecting tea cups, angels or baseball hats all of your life, you may feel attached to each item. The memories that come with collections and purchases are precious. In a small place, though, you probably won't have room to display everything. A special shelf can display three or four exceptional items at a time. Remember, you can rotate the displays or pictures. Put the rose plates out in June and decorate with the Santa plates in December!

 

• Comfort trumps quantity. Are you used to decorating your bed with a dozen throw pillows? Overnight storage for such items can be limited, so it might be time to pare down items used purely for decoration. Throw rugs can trip you up; couch cushions take up space; grandmother's China is too delicate for the dishwasher. Pass these items along to others.

 

• Be yourself. When all is said and done, your living space should make you comfortable and happy. If you want pictures hanging floor to ceiling, and your lease or abilities allow it, "do you!" If you'd rather use your kitchen shelves for your model airplanes instead of for extra plates, it's up to you. The photographed faces of your family and friends may be your décor of choice.  But it's up to you.

 
Charlene Frazier 
Community Coordinator, Residence 600
600 E. Elm, Salina KS 67401
785-822-1300
residentservices.600@gmail.com