My Take on Happiness

These past few weeks have taken quite a toll on my mental health, and even though this is very personal to share, I think it ties in well with where and how I developed my beliefs on happiness, positivity, and the mindset I have for life.The first time I realized that happiness depends on yourself and your interpersonal relationships with others (friends, family members, colleagues, etc.) was when I was in ninth grade and my science teacher gave a short speech and stated that no matter how far you try to run, no matter where you are, you can never be fulfilled with the true feeling of happiness until your relationships with your close ones are at its best. At the age of fifteen, I really had no idea what he was talking about. But today, I couldn't agree more with his advice.I've always noticed a significant change in the way I feel when I have the support from close friends. I often find it difficult to remind myself that I do have support around me, I just need to reach out. But the problem is, some people make it hard to reach out to. In fact, some people just stubbornly turn away because they believe you are seeking for attention or that you just might be "dramatic". I've realized those people you just have to slowly turn away from as well. Those people will not help you grow in the long run and it's better to get rid of their negativity and lack of support now, rather than later down the road.Looking back to my high school days, I realize that I probably felt like I was at a very low point in my life during some time in those four years as well. And somehow, I managed to get through it and found my way to Southern California, the place I've been dreaming to live in since the age of thirteen. It's comforting to acknowledge that the bad grade I had in that one "dumb" class means nothing now. I won't let myself be defined or stressed by a letter, another person, or the opinion of others, and neither should you.Another thing I'd like to add to that is simply--be kind. I can admit I've had my fair share of moments where I definitely could've been nicer to another person, because a simple act of kindness can really affect a person's day, or even life. This is one of the aspects I am working on myself right now and each time I openly extend a helping hand or share a smile with another, it also makes me feel internally good, which in the long run is healthy for the soul.Be kind. Be happy. Be grateful. Share love with others, because you never know when such a simple act can help strengthen another.xx