Tempted to be paralyzed by fear? Overwhelmed by doubt? Brought to your knees by exhaustion?

For many, the definition of happiness is built upon certainty. We work very hard to make life predictable. Yet the one thing in life that is ‘certain’ is ‘change’. Hanging on to this stable definition of happiness is ‘certain’ to bring disappointments and trigger concerns. The old definition of happiness is ever harder sustain amidst the avalanche of rapid change triggered by politics, the economy, the weather, negative and contrary energies, and shifting dreams.

The truth is, happiness can still be ours amidst the rapid and unpredictable change we are experiencing in every nook and cranny of our lives. Durable happiness is ours when we realize this and shift our definition of happiness to include unknowns and unpredictable situations. Shift happens.
So what’s a girl to do when our financial security feels threatened, when our dreams meet detours, or when we face challenges bigger than our reserve of energy?

Try these Seven Steps:

1. Accept what is, for what we resist, persists and dig deep to find the trust and faith that what is happening has embedded in it amazing possibilities and opportunities
2. Remember and meditate on the Serenity Prayer: Grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change, courage to change the things I can, and the wisdom to know the difference
3. Stay focused on this precious present moment and all that is working, for this is the only one we really have. Gratitude opens the door to happiness
4. Laugh more and worry less. Leave room for life to be messy, because it is. Mark Twain Twain said, “I have been through some terrible things in my life, some of which actually happened.” Worry is a waste of energy and only offers the illusion that we are doing something productive
5. Take action steps toward paying off debt, but don’t give up dreaming big. Vision your dream as fulfilled, and even if in baby steps, lean the direction of limitless possibilities
6. CONNECT!!! Hold hands. Don’t go ‘Lone Ranger’. Surrounding yourself with a trusted circle of support, and share with them your progress toward your dreams rather than co-miserating about your fears.
7. Breathe deep and take time to be still, allowing happiness to fill your body from head to toe. Then, exhale all worries and fears. Repeat as needed.

Stop running in circles, and become a willing, active, and compassionate part of one! This provides the round-about to happiness, even amidst challenging times. There is great joy to be experienced in the good company of other tender-hearted and passionate women.