I remember taking a course long ago that was an exploration of creativity. And the most profound page in the course manual was on page four where only four words were written. "What do you want?"

I have found this to be one of the most important questions you can contemplate and answer.

When I have asked the question to others, most people answer with one of two responses.

If faced with a health challenge, most people want to have good health. Otherwise, the answer is "I want to be happy."

That leads me to ask, What would make YOU happy?

The answer differs from person to person. When the answer revolves around something material, like a new car or a big house,  happiness once attained as a result often doesn't last long before it has to be renewed. A fulfilled desire often brings satisfaction, only to be followed by a new desire.

I say all happiness has to be renewed all the time. Happiness is within you and all around you. You don't have to look far to find it. Happiness can be found in a joke that tickles you every time you think of the punch line. Or in hearing a child's giggle and laughter. Or watching a favorite old movie or television show.

For the rest of the day, look for your happiness. Imagine being a happiness "magnet", and draw humor and mirth to you. Extract joy from every encounter. You may feel closer than ever to those people with whom you have bonded over happiness, humor and joyfulness. I remember hosting a gathering of friends for dinner and asking each invited guest to recite their favorite joke. Never have I laughed so hard at the wonderful recitations.

If you want to know more about what to do to bring more happiness into your life, I suggest that you look at a recently released book I found called Happy for No Reason by Marci Shimoff.

I seldom make recommendations, but I have found this book covers the subject well. Just to be clear, I get absolutely no benefit from endorsing the book; it is simply one I wish I had written, for the research and stories that Marci collected are delightful and her suggestions are practical and effective.