Purposefully Happy

There are undeniably many sources of anxiety in our world today, and reasons to be depressed. It’s one of those laugh or cry situations, and I’d generally rather laugh. But how? A couple of recent articles provided some guidance.

Psychology Today talks about purpose in terms of little p versus Big P. People often feel they have to find life’s meaning in a big way, health, happiness and all. A huge goal that is tied to your identify can be depressing if you feel you’ve failed to find or achieve it. The article suggests considering another approach. Think about activities you enjoy, small wins when you connect with people, or ideas that excite you. Build life around them, and things will look better.

An article in the New York Times offered several tips for achieving small moments of happiness. My favorite was to think about the reverse of pet peeves (of which I have many.) Rather than something that annoys you all out of proportion, what’s something small that brings you a disproportionate amount of joy? Perhaps it’s as simple as sticking an orange slice and an umbrella in a drink, to feel like you’re on vacation. Or lining up the towels, t-shirts or books just so, to look neater. Or bringing some summer flowers indoors. Whatever your reverse pet peeves might be, make a point of scheduling them into your day.

One of the things that brings me immense joy every time I see it is a gorgeous sunset. Sometimes dramatic, sometimes soothing, the colors reflecting off buildings, boats or water never fail to move me. I think about how lucky I am to love color so much and be able to see it so often. I remember how small we are in the scheme of things, and how insignificant our problems. This painting was one of many I’ve done to capture that feeling. You can see it in person at Coastal Arts Studio at the Velvet Mill in Stonington, CT.