aug 8/21 - How to create your own happiness...

As I begin my worldwide journey today I'm flying overnight to Toronto and on to Charlottetown, PEI today, I have been told by many "You are so lucky", "I'm so jealous" and it made me want to write about how I became to finally live the life I have always dreamed of, to travel, to be free and to write.
I am a big believer in positive thinking even before it was popular. I believe thoughts become reality and this was always the goal for me. After my girls were grown I knew I was going to travel and throughout my life I followed the signs to make that path happen but it all started with being grateful for the life I had at that MOMENT. Making the present “perfect” helps pave the way.  Remember life is not about the destination, it’s about the journey.
My life had many, many ups and downs, just like everyone else.. Life is HARD sometimes and I really believe that if you follow a life of gratitude it can make all the difference in the world. Living in the present, enjoying the present, being grateful for the present and listening to the signs from the Universe to follow the path I had carved out in my mind.

So why does being grateful work?  Here are some reasons...

• Expressing gratitude fills your brain with dopamine and serotonin, the neurotransmitters responsible for our emotions and spark the brain to enhance our mood immediately!
• People who focus on the positive in their life tend to be happier people, leading to lower incidences of mental stress, sadness and depression.
• Writing down your thoughts increases your resilience by helping you bounce back from stressful events and acts as a buffer against internalizing symptoms.
• The more thankful we feel, the more we show gratitude toward others creating a positive cycle of empathy and compassion.
• Showing gratitude means you are acknowledging all the "positive" in your life which brings you contentment, satisfaction and strengthens your ability to deal with whatever comes your way.​

Studies show writing in a journal once or twice a week is more beneficial than daily journaling. You can create your own happiness by being consistent every week! I like to write and reflect on Sundays. Even this blog is created on Sundays and will be sent out on Sundays. 

I created this Gratitude Journal just before I closed my clinic because I wanted to give people the tool I used to create my happiness and I knew it was something I wanted to offer my followers when I began this journey. This 52 week Gratitude Journal ebook will be available to those who join our HHS Family. It feels good to begin the week on a positive note and set yourself up for the week ahead. It worked for me and it will work for you! ​

Thank you for following my journey to writing a book series!
Stay Balanced, 
​LeeAnna