My own principles have helped me work through both the favorable and unfavorable events in my life.  I sometimes make tough decisions that are necessary for my own happiness.  Some decisions that may cause unhappiness today are strategically designed to lead to happiness later on.  I trust my intuition about what I need to do for tomorrow, regardless of the impact today.

When my conscience is clear, I feel at ease.  I leave my nervous tendencies in the past.  I avoid relying on the opinions of others to drive my decisions.  Although seeking advice is helpful, I only do it to gain perspective, not to allow others to decide for me.

When I catch myself being stubborn in my thinking, I remember my responsibility to make mature decisions.  Even when others are unhappy with my decisions, if I know my decisions are for the best, I refuse to change my mind.

My actions are based on my decision to seek peace and happiness.

Today, I continue to search for happiness in every aspect of my life.  This is a work in progress that takes considerable effort.  Situations change and cause me to make difficult decisions, but I am justified as long as I remain true to myself, and ensure that my actions match my intentions.



LACE for Life Questions:

1.    When have you allowed the influence of others to change your moral position?

2.    How can you ensure that your decisions are geared towards peace and happiness?

3.    Why do you sometimes allow outside forces to influence you into making counterproductive or                unfavorable decisions?

How do you create happiness in your everyday life?

1. Positive thinkers have taught me to make the most out of every situation. I am able to take limited resources and make them into something great.  Developing a positive mindset helps me believe in myself. I know that a little extra effort can allow me to find strengths I thought were beyond my capability.
2. With a positive mindset, I have become more creative. Difficult situations require creative thinking if resolution is the ultimate goal.  First, I must raise my consciousness beyond the level where the problem started.
3. Very few things get me down when I maintain a positive frame of mind. When something unfortunate happens, I am able to pick myself up and move on. It is much easier to get over disappointment when I focus on the positive.
   

Make a commitment today to making your situations happier by maintaining a positive outlook. Keep your social environment positive by surrounding yourself with positive people. Know that this is a key component to ensuring that more good things come your way.

LACE for Life questions:

1.    What is the difference between being positive and being over-zealous?

2.    How do you deal with loved ones who constantly display a negative outlook on life?

3.    What strategies can you use to remain positive when someone you love is going through a painful            experience?