Do you wish you could be one of those happy people you encounter every so often? You know the ones – they constantly smile, they embrace every situation in a positive manner and they are always content with their lives. Could it be that they are just naturally happy-go-lucky? Probably not. Most likely, they’ve chosen to create happiness within themselves.

Many people believe that material things and upcoming events will make them happy. They’re looking for the next best thing to come along, and when it does, it only makes them temporarily happy. Wouldn’t you like to have that joyful feeling all the time, rather than just for a fleeting moment?

Happiness is derived from within, as well as how we respond to certain circumstances. You have the power to control every situation in your life in order to experience happiness as a way of life – with peace, fulfillment and pleasure. By taking action with the following small steps, you, too will know what it feels like to be a happy person!

Live in the Present: Do you have negative thoughts about the past or do you constantly agonize about things that may or may not happen in the future? Forget about the past. It’s gone. Train your mind to replace those negative past events with happy memories. As for the future, nobody can predict what will happen. Worrying about things that haven’t happened yet is exhausting and a waste of time. Plan smartly and live in the present. Enjoy each minute you are living – allowing you to relax and embrace each day with comfort.

Surround Yourself With Positive People: Being around downbeat people zaps your energy and compels you to put a negative twist on life, in general. Happy people know this. That’s why they surround themselves with people who are like-minded – who uplift you and make you feel as though being in their presence is just easy – not draining and stressful. Although you cannot always choose who’s around you, you can respond in ways that will sustain your happiness without compromising it.

Set High Standards and Boundaries: Are you a “yes” person? You know, the type that tries to “please all the people, all the time?” If you are one of these individuals, then start setting standards and boundaries for yourself NOW. Nobody likes being taken advantage of, and this is one of the ways your happiness will be sucked out of you. Say no when it doesn’t fit into your description of satisfaction and enjoyment. Fill your life with what you love to do, rather than what others think you should be doing. Again, you have the power to control your own life – nobody else does.  Worried that you’ll make someone mad by saying no? Then perhaps that person isn’t an ideal one to have in your life!

By taking control of your life by choosing to be happy all the time, you will no longer be on the emotional rollercoaster with temporary feelings of joy. Within your core, you will be calm, relaxed and at peace, knowing you are living life your way, rather than allowing negative thoughts, people and situations to overcome you.