Unlock Your Personal Joy: Craft Your Own Happiness Journey

Unlock Your Personal Joy: Craft Your Own Happiness Journey

Last month, Greatist asked its audience to share their thoughts on happiness by answering the prompt, "How do you find happiness?" The response was overwhelming, with heartfelt entries pouring in. After careful consideration, we selected three standout submissions, two finalists, and one winner, whose work will be featured on Greatist.

The winner, Casie Cook, is a passionate wordsmith and MFA student at Hamline University in St. Paul, Minnesota. Known for her wit and dedication to human connection, you can find her musings at www.createhappy.org or on Twitter @kaceemaree.

Create Happiness

I've fond memories of Post-it notes with a simple message left by my father on my bedroom door or the inside of our house's front door – "Have a great day, Kid. Love, Dad." He made a point to do this for my brother and me after my mom left us at the age of 11. Despite the hardships, we pushed forward, supporting each other through adversity. I recall countless moments filled with my dad's infectious laughter.

My father was an embodiment of happiness. He proved that happiness can be found even in the most challenging circumstances. He showed kindness to others without expecting anything in return. He once surprised a neighbor with a flower garden, knowing she couldn't afford it, and drove across states to see a dying relative when no one else would.

His grand acts of kindness often came in smaller doses as well. He offered helping hands to strangers at Home Depot, returned stray shopping carts, and prioritized others over his plans. His ability to share laughter and positivity affected everyone he encountered, leaving a lasting impression.

Life was hard on him. He lost his father at a young age, was raised by a single mother, and married an unsupportive alcoholic. But despite these challenges, he managed to raise us with love and dedication. He stitched his own jeans and worked double shifts to provide for us.

Unfortunately, my father passed away at the age of 52, leaving behind a legacy of love and happiness. I was 24 at the time, and my brother was 21. As I look back, I realize he taught me how to live a fulfilling life. He showed me the value of kindness, understanding, and building meaningful relationships. I now carry on his legacy by showing love and support to those around me, helping others, and pursuing artistic endeavors.

Happiness cannot be found – it must be created. It's not waiting for you at the end of a paycheck or hidden in your coffee cup. It's something you need to cultivate for yourself and the people in your life. Share your happiness with others, even strangers, and create an enjoyable existence.

For more insights on happiness, explore our Finalists' perspectives:

How to Find Happiness by Being Happy About “Nothing”

How to Find Happiness by Learning to Be Present

Share your own journey to happiness using the hashtag #myhappyis

The winner's approach to happiness, as described in her submission, emphasizes the importance of creativity. She recalls the impact of her father's handwritten notes and how they fostered a sense of happiness in challenging times. This creativity in expressing love and support helped build resilience in her and her brother.

Casie Cook's work underscores the role of mental health in overall happiness, highlighting the power of kindness, understanding, and human connection. Her father's acts of kindness, big and small, showed that mental well-being and happiness are interconnected.

Furthermore, the winner's belief in creating happiness rather than finding it suggests a holistic approach to mental health. She encourages sharing happiness with others, thereby promoting a positive impact on their mental health as well. Her call to action through the hashtag #myhappyis emphasizes the importance of individual experiences and collective efforts in fostering happiness.

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