The pursuit of happiness

the lesser spotted

The foolish man seeks happiness in the distance; the wise grows it under his feet.  ~James Openheim


It's January 3rd and Oh no! According to surveys it is the most depressing day of 2012 ( apparently we will all take stock on national debt, the bleak year ahead, personal debt, no future, worldwide debt blah blah blah) It was only two days ago we were all wishing each other a 'Happy" new year and already the media are telling us it's time to get miserable again (the swines!)
Which brings me to my point. Is it possible to make yourself happy even if you are feeling hopeless. Can one lure the bluebird of happiness down from it's perch and force it to sit on one's shoulder and sing it's cheery song even if circumstances are telling it to migrate.
This is my January challenge. The cultivation of happiness. Happiness that doesn't depend on any external event but homegrown happiness that comes from within. Happiness that doesn't relate to any material gain or ambition filled but a personal intangible asset. Emotional wealth is what I am after.

My plan is simple. 
It is a well known fact that endorphins make you feel better so every day I will work out (just took up running again after a 7 year hiatus)
Alcohol is a depressant so I will avoid drinking it (Just poured the last of the christmas bevvy down the sink!). 
Positive affirmations are said to improve mental health so I have downloaded a hypnotic happy app onto my iphone and intend to listen to it every day throughout January.
I will care for myself better with nutritionally sound food.
And thats it. No big deal. 
A small series of positive actions that will lead me towards a happier state of mind. Do it and eventually you will become it.
Happier new year? The choice is ours.