HAPPINESS - the most pursued goal of every human being! Go to any good book shop and you will find the shelves are loaded with books that preach on how to be happy. You don't have the time or money to read those books. Don't worry. Here are ten simple ten steps that hold the promise of leading you to the path of happiness.
1. Plant something and nurture it. See it grow into something big.
2. Count your blessings - at least five - at the end of each day.
3. Take time to talk - say about an hour- long conversation with a loved one each week.
4. Phone a friend whom you have not spoken to for a while and arrange to meet up.
5. Give yourself a treat every day, however small, and take the time to really enjoy it.
6. Read something humorous (a comic strip) and have a good laugh at least once a day.
7. Get physical - exercise for at least half an hour three times a week.
8. Smile at and/or say hello to a stranger at least once each day.
9. Cut your TV viewing by half or more. Instead, cultivate friends who are enthusiastic.
10. Spread some kindness - do a good turn for someone every day.
May Heaven and Earth be gracious unto you,
May those two splendors set you free from suffering!
May the Sun warm you with blessings!
May the Wind waft its propitious breezes to your heart!
May the heavenly Streams, rich in milk, flow within you auspiciously!
- Atharva Veda VIII, 2, 14
