Happiness is a choice. You have probably heard that statement many, many times over.

There is nothing more destructive to ones happiness than negative thinking. Why is it that we tend to be more aware of the way we speak to others than we are of how we speak to ourselves? There is the saying that goes “every day may not be good, but there is something good in every day.” Take the time to focus on what it is you’re grateful for each and every day. Even on what you perceive to be the worst of days you still may have had an amazing cup of coffee or shared an interesting conversation with someone important to you. Even if it is the smallest thing, you can find something to be appreciative of and positive about in each day.

We’re not talking material things here either. We are talking about people. I think every one of us can think of someone in our own lives who is inherently negative or who brings more anguish than happiness to your life. While it is not always an easy decision, it is imperative to reduce or eliminate the time you spend with toxic people. It doesn’t necessarily mean you are deeming them as “bad people” – they’re just not for you. Focus on surrounding yourself with people who truly care about you and want to see you succeed in life, by whatever your definition of success is. You are defined by the people you spend the most time with so take a moment to look around you. If the people you’re giving your time to are more negative than positive, it’s time to reassess who you have in your life!

Stress is a top killer of happiness and is detrimental to our overall health, so it is very important to find outlets to manage it. Exercise is a great way to release endorphins and give yourself a natural energy boost. This could be in the form of running, yoga or even finding a sport you enjoy that you could participate in. Meditation is another great way to manage stress as you focus on clearing your mind and managing your breathing. Whatever it is, find something that works for you.