A handful of my wonderful friends (MJ, Joy, Clare & Erin) have been busy reading a wonderful book, “The Happiness Project,” by Gretchen Rubin. And now Erin and some wonderful women have started a Be Happy Linkup movementdiscussing this book and how they are all working to achieve happiness in their own lives…something I’m happy to be contributing to, today.
I haven’t read the book yet…but I will tell you that I’ve read the first 6 pages on Amazon, and it’s waiting patiently on my nook for me.
And if you don’t know what the book is about…basically, it’s an autobiography about Gretchen’s quest for happiness during one year of her life.
For me, I feel like I’ve been on my happiness project for more than a year. Somewhere around the time I turned 30 was when my eyes started to really open up, and I started thinking, “what if”?
Up until that point, I kept certain people in my life, cuz well…I thought having them in my life was a benefit. They were of no use to me however. Always bringing me down, never lifting me up, and manipulating me whenever they got the chance.
Unhealthy friendships and relationships.
And the worst part…I let them!
I didn’t realize it then, but they were like the “fat” on a protein rich steak. Unhealthy for me, and prone to causing blockage on my heart.
I had to cut that fat out of my life.
If I wanted to be happy, successful and healthy…those people had to leave my life.
For the most part, some coincidentally did leave my life altogether. And for the rest…well, it’s just plain rude to kick someone to the curb. So I decided one day that the only way for them to “leave” me was to not let them affect me. And by doing that, I gained, not only my confidence (that for so long was missing) and my happiness. I felt a surge of strength and tenacity at their “departure”. And it made me realize just how much I value myself.
“You are only as good as the company you keep”
A famous proverb/quote with a lot of meaning.
When you surround yourself with positive people, people who appreciate you, who inspire you to be greater than you think you are…those are the friendships and relationships that will help to bring you happiness.
Ever had to cut the “fat” out of your life?
Ah, where do I sign up?! The Happiness Project is one of my favourite books! Definitely a bible for cutting the “fat” out of your life.
I’ve had to do it quite a few times… in many different aspects of my life like school or work wise, friends, etc. You just can’t have things in your life that constantly bring you down, it’s definitely unhealthy to have that kind of stress in your life. Of course I think it was easier than the book says… I feel like even cutting something out of your life requires at least 5 steps before you can actually do it, but in the end, it does make you happier (for the most part).
I’m glad you’re reading the book, Louise! Hope you enjoy it as much as I did.
P.S. that photo looks divineeee… I’d love to have it for breakfast right now, haha!
Yes, I believe that too…that it takes more than one step towards “cutting the fat.” It’s always easier said than done. But in the end, you always feel so much better =) Haha, that photo had me salivating too! XO
I can totally relate! I try to keep toxic people out of my life and recently made the big decision to get rid of the only one in my life lately…my boss. I will be giving my 2 weeks notice next week and can’t wait! Life really is too short to deal with people who just bring you down.
Yes!! Toxic people are yuck!! hehe So happy you’re giving your 2 wks notice! Have u done it yet?! Onto bigger & better things!! XO
Oh, you know I did! Actually, the “fat” in my life did me the favor of walking away all by itself. At first, it was kind of devastating, but then I realized that I was in a much happier, healthier place. I’m careful about the company I keep now, but the friends I do hold near and dear are ones that I know will be around no matter what. Genuine relationships are so important. Unconditional love is priceless!
Yes…they did you a huge favor J! You don’t need people like that in your life. I’m happy, you’re happy =) XO