Have you ever considered your frame of mind?  I define the frame of mind as a person’s way of thinking about their well-being, goals, and values.  For instance, if someone believes that they will never get ahead, they will not get ahead.  If a person believes that they can do amazing things, they can.  A person in a poor frame of mind might have trouble losing weight because they don’t feel they can.  A person in a positive frame of mind can become more active and drop weight quickly, at any age.  If someone believes that they can get a better job, find a healthy relationship, or get healthy, they can.  Having a healthy and positive frame of mind is important in your search for happiness.

When you think about your goals, whatever they may be, you have to believe that you can achieve them.  As you think about your primary goal, you should consider a goal that can be achieved.  I have a goal to win the lottery, but that is likely not achievable (although I keep trying).  If your goal is to get healthy or find a new relationship, you have to develop objectives to get you moving toward your goal.  If you have a goal to lose weight or get healthy, you have to be able to clearly understand what you want to happen.  “I want to lose 50 pounds” isn’t a well-defined goal.  I want to lose 50 pounds this year, by going to the gym 2-3 times per week, watching my calorie intake, and cutting back on drinking soda, would be a good start. With clear goals, you can develop a positive frame of mind.

Another piece to consider is how much you believe in yourself.  There is so much you can accomplish if you believe in yourself.  If you have a frame of mind that keeps you trapped in a dead-end job, or in an unhealthy relationship, you may never be able to break free.   Working on your frame of mind can help you find the courage and motivation to make a change.   That courage and motivation can be key as you work toward your happiness.  Without it, many people feel stuck and lost.  Your future is what you make it, and there is always time to make positive changes in your life. 

Consider taking a vacation.  In the right frame of mind, your vacation can be magical and restorative.  In the wrong frame of mind, your vacation can be a disaster.  Going on vacation with a negative frame of mind can make all the little issues seem gigantic.  In the wrong frame of mind, nothing goes well, you complain about everything, including your travel partners.  In a positive frame of mind, you focus more on the positive.  You enjoy being together, enjoying the location, and seeking meaningful interactions.  With that frame of mind, the vacation becomes a success.  It is always interesting to me that two people can go on the same vacation with one having a miserable time and the other having a wonderful time.  That is because of their frame of mind.

Life is not easy.  It takes work and focus to create a life you can enjoy.  It doesn’t just happen.  Make sure that your frame of mind is positive and hopeful.  Make sure that you believe in your goals and reach for your dreams.  Make sure you stay positive and hopeful, and surround yourself with support and people who believe in you.  It’s all part of being happy, for life.