It’s easy to get wrapped up in the challenges we might encounter every day or to do everything for others and nothing or very little for ourselves. Because it’s difficult to just do things for ourselves and find reasons to smile sometimes, this is why Happiness Happens Month exists. This recognition month comes around every August and its purpose is to celebrate the things that make you happy. It’s a reminder that happiness is boundless and infectious, and sharing our joy can bring immense happiness to others as well.
While the idea of dedicating a whole month to happiness might sound a bit funny, it’s actually a real thing and it’s a month that should be appreciated as well. It serves as a gentle nudge, encouraging us to cherish life’s little moments of bliss because they can often go overlooked. It reminds us that happiness is often found in small actions and experiences. Most importantly, it emphasizes that happiness is personal and has the incredible power to spread like wildfire, positively impacting the lives of those around us.
Happiness Happens Month: A Glimpse Into Its Origin
Happiness Happens Month is similar to a certain day that was created on August 8, 1999. It was called, ‘Admit You’re Happy Day’ and it was established by the Secret Society of Happy People in 1999 and yes, it’s a real society.
The initiative for this month aims to recognize the importance of happiness in our lives and encourages people of all ages to appreciate the small, joyful moments that contribute to their well-being. In the case of seniors, who have witnessed the highs and lows of life, this month is more than just a nudge to remember to allow yourself to be happy and excitable. It’s also a reminder to cherish everything you experience and to show others how important it is to do the same.
Embracing Positive Aging: A Key Component of Happiness
At least 38% of seniors say they’ve experienced loneliness. For seniors, Happiness Happens Month serves as an opportunity to redefine the concept of aging. It is a time to focus on what can be gained, rather than lost. Seniors are encouraged to embrace the wisdom, experiences, and memories that come with age, allowing them to view life in a variety of ways and this month can help seniors do that. Consider the things that make you happy or the things you want to be able to do. If you aren’t sure where to start, think of how you can cultivate happiness.
Time with family and loved ones is one of the best ways to do this. Whether you’re a long-distance grandparent or not, there is plenty that you can do regardless of your location to enjoy time with those that you care about. Engaging with peers and forming meaningful connections in general is a powerful way to boost happiness. Seniors can join local clubs, volunteer for community activities, or participate in hobby groups that align with their interests. You’d be surprised how far joining a morning water aerobics class or a high tea club can go.
Another thing to consider is your connection with nature. Give a reconnection with nature a try. Spending time outdoors can have a profound impact on happiness levels and have a positive impact on your health and wellness which can also contribute to higher levels of happiness. Whether it’s a simple stroll in the park, tending to a garden, taking the grandkids for a picnic in the park, or even something like bird watching, seniors can experience a deep sense of joy and even peace along with a clear mind.
Putting Happiness First as a Senior
In the spirit of what August truly means, seniors should pursue their passion more. Retirement opens up the opportunity to indulge in long-held passions or explore new interests. Seniors can take up a variety of things from painting, writing, or cooking to learning an instrument or finding fulfillment in creativity in some other way. August is meant to remind us of the things that make us laugh, smile, and feel fulfilled. This is also one reason why it’s essential for seniors to practice gratitude during this month so that it becomes more of a transformative habit. Whether you decide to do this in a spiritual way or just in general every day, the idea is to help you form more of a positive mindset and appreciate life’s blessings.
With that, try to do what you can to spread happiness to others this month. One of the most rewarding ways to experience joy is by making others happy. Seniors can engage in random acts of kindness, like sending uplifting cards to friends or supporting a charitable cause they resonate with.
Happiness Happens Month Is for Everyone but Especially Seniors
Happiness Happens Month is a great opportunity for seniors to celebrate life, gratitude, and positivity and to make that contagious to others around them. This month is intentionally fun-sounding, a bit whimsical, and intended to make you think about your happiness on more than just the surface level. So, while it may sound like a silly holiday or month of recognition…think about its meaning on a deeper level.
