It seems we all want something else. To be richer, happier, drive a nicer car, have a better job, be in a fulfilling relationship or take a vacation somewhere with white sparkling sand, palm trees, and drinks with little umbrellas in them. Yes, it's the norm, we all want something. The same is true with our emotions. sometimes we're angry, sad, frustrated, anxious or feel on the verge or road rage for no apparent reason. And then you come across one of a plethora of books on Happiness. Happiness, you might think, yeah, happiness my____fill in the blanks!But deep down inside happiness is something we all want, but how? Are there simple shortcuts? Is that possible? I believe it is. The short, one word answer as to how is:
FOCUS!
Ok, yes, I'll explain. We can train ourselves to focus our emotions in any direction we want. Yes, it takes a bit of practice and concentration, but it is something we are all caable of doing.
Let's use an extreme example. Let's say someone, play along, pretend it's you, is in prison. A horrible deep, dark, isolated prison with nothing but a rat creeping through your cell. You are incredibly angry that you are there because it was a case of mistaken identity. You don't deserve this, it's not fair and even the thought of happiness is quite removed from your existence and maybe at this moment you have lost any faith in a God, or creator of any sort.
But you have one saving grace. There is a small window high on the wall about 18 by 20 inches. This window is old and drafty. You look up through the dirt-smeared window to glimpse the sky. You stare at the color of blue. To you it is the most magnificent hue you have ever seen. You walk closer and feel a slight breeze coming through the window and onto your face, pushing your hair back ever so gently. A slight wisp of a cloud creates a white drawing on an azure canvas. All is forgotten except the beauty of what you are focusing on. There is only awareness of this beautiful sky that you are peering at. A calm envelopes you that is indescribable and you feel as if you are swimming, floating and dancing on this white cloud. Your imagination, and your emotions soar with delight. An isirresistible smile comes over your face, and in that moment, that very beautiful moment of existence, you are happy.
Why? Because you were able to focus all of your emotions, all of your attention, all of your beingness on something so small, and something so grand as the heavenly sky.
So next time you want to change in an instant. Try it. Focus all of your attention on something that will bring you joy. Maybe it's a flower, or a song, or the sky. Maybe it's the eyes of someone you love or the sound of laughter. Maybe it's a ladybug that lands on your finger, the fragrance of a glass of wine, or a painting.
With Love, Joy,and Focus!
Maggie
ps. That is why painting brings me joy...all of my attention, all of my focus is on putting brush to canvas.
www.HappinessAwaitsYou.info
