Don't worry, be happy!

It is not uncommon for people to say they want more money, a great job and a perfect partner for the New Year. Underlying all these wants is really a desire to be happy. Are you happy? Check these pointers.

1. Your happiness is your responsibility. Happiness is a choice and a personal journey that should be nurtured. You have to train your brain and self for happiness.

2. Determine what makes you happy. You will never be truly happy until you pursue your dreams and self-actualise. Create a plan for your life and start living your dream. Do not live other people's dream; you will never be happy. This might mean leaving something behind, such as stepping out of a relationship, leaving a job or moving house. Engage in the things that you truly enjoy, pursue the things that you are passionate about.

3. Healthy lifestyle matters. Pay attention to your diet it affects your mental state. Exercise regularly. Research has shown that 20-30 minutes of brisk walking, three times per week can make you happier. Exercise releases brain chemicals called endorphins that make you feel good. For the past year, I have been exercising regularly and it has worked wonders for me.

4. Count your blessings. Some years ago I met a blind woman who lost her house in a hurricane. I asked her if she was satisfied with life. She told me she was extremely happy in spite of everything because she had life, family, friends and her faith. She taught me to focus on the positives in life and to count my blessings. Happiness does not come as a result of getting something we don't have, it comes from appreciating the things we already have. Be grateful for the small things in life.

5. Give and continue to give. Over the holidays, I found that I received the greatest pleasure through my acts of giving rather than from the things I received. This year, volunteer your time and give of your talents; it will make a difference to the quality of your life. "If you want to be happy for an hour, take a nap. If you want to be happy for a year, inherit a fortune. If you want to be happy for life, help someone." (Chinese proverb)

6. Family, friends and faith matter. People who take time out to cultivate solid friendships and establish and maintain family connections display more happiness. Take time to nurture friendships and relationships. Participate in social activities and religious groups.

7. Accept yourself as you are. You are indeed a special and unique human being with a special place and purpose in this world.

8. Focus on the present. Forgive the past, forgive others for past wrongs and forgive yourself for past mistakes. You only have now. Live it and enjoy it. Many people live for the rainy days and forget to live and enjoy the sunny days.

Have a happy 2011.

Dr Wendel Abel is a consultant psychiatrist and head, Section of Psychiatry, Deptartment Of Community Health and Psychiatry, University of the West Indies, 977-1108; email: yourhealth@gleanerjm.com.