The Happiness Project ...

I came across this book on my daughter's blog and thought I'd read it for myself. I don't know if any of you have heard of it.

The idea behind the project is to focus on something different each month to bring happiness. It's very American ... but does have some interesting theories. 

There is also a blog to read with loads of tips and ideas.

Now, I was truly, truly happy during the last six months while I was having my treatment  (after the initial shock wore off) 

... it's a strange fact that such a scary illness could have such a beneficial side effect.

I think, obviously, the happiness stemmed from the fact that the treatment went so well,  but over and above that, was the new improved relationship with my family. We have spent so much quality time together recently, which has been wonderful. We make time for each other now. We were very guilty of often being too busy before.

Of course, I also had the opportunity to discover that I was blissfully happy at home, away from my work ...  and didn't miss it one little bit.

Well, now I'm back at work I don't want that happiness to get swallowed up, as the real world starts to intrude again.

So, turning to the book, the focus for January is:

Boost energy .... being happy energises you, and having energy enables you to do activities that boost happiness.

Go to sleep earlier

Exercise better

Organise and de-clutter ... disorder is a drain on your energy ... 

Tackle nagging tasks

Act more energetic.

I have real issues with sleep at the moment, so that is something for me to work on.

I can't even begin to think about exercising right now, beyond a walk with the dog. I just get too exhausted .... so I may have to leave that one for now.

I'm really going to focus on the organising and de-cluttering though, at work and at home. I do get worn down by the sheer scale of 'stuff' sometimes. I want to stay on top of things and not get buried in paperwork, ironing etc. I've already planned to have a supermarket delivery to save my energy doing the shopping. I made a start today with a good clear out of the coat cupboard and a trip to the tip with stuff that had accumulated over Christmas. 

There's lots more to do! This will keep me going until the end of the month!

I'm pretty much up to date on the nagging tasks that I normally put off, and I've done all the health checks recently and we've even had Inca at the vet to renew her pet passport. 

Hopefully all this will lead to a new more energetic me ... and a happy me!

We'll see!