Ten Rules of Happiness

Dr. Joyce Brothers passed away this week at the age of eighty-five. If that name is not familiar, Dr. Brothers was a pioneer in the world of self-help “pop” psychology, and one of the first women to build a career on media exposure—quite an achievement, considering her career predates the internet, (of course), as well as color, cable, and satellite television.

I grew up reading her self-help columns in my mother’s Good Housekeeping magazines and in our local newspaper. Years ago I read and tucked away one of my favorites, her Ten Rules of Happiness. When I’ve needed a little self-kicking into happiness gear, I’ve pulled out her list and read it over for an instant attitude adjustment.

In honor of her life and achievements, I’m sharing with you today her Ten Rules:

Ten Rules of Happiness, by Dr. Joyce Brothers:

1. Think that good things will happen.
2. Express gratitude to a loved one.
3. Put your gripes away in a box.
4. Be patient with an annoying person.
5. Do something special for yourself.
6. Reach out to someone who needs comfort.
7. Focus deeply on each moment.
8. Learn from a mistake.
9. Look closely at a flower or tree you haven’t noticed before.
10. Smile!

Go ahead, smile, you know it will make you feel better!

What happiness advice do have tucked away? I’d love to hear from you.