With our illness, it is easy to lose sight of the little things that can bring us happiness especially if you are in a depressive episode. When you are manic many things may make you angry and easily outraged. In either case, taking time to relax, breathe, and focusing on the little things that make you happy can be very important. What makes you happy? Does having fresh flowers on your kitchen table as a centerpiece bring a smile to your face? If so, buy a small bouquet. That does make me happy, but with my cat who likes to eat leaves, I have not been able to enjoy that for a while. Things that make you happy are probably much different than the things that make me happy, but you should take the time to write down those things that make YOU happy. This is your list, not your kid's, not your spouse's, or anyone else's list. This is strictly for YOU. This is not being selfish, it is a way to take care of yourself. You must make yourself strong before you are able to help others. It is like the airplane analogy where you put the oxygen mask on your face first, then the other one's that you love. If you are weak, then helping others becomes an act in futility. And YES, you can be the strong one in your relationships. Just because you have bipolar disorder does not mean that you are weak. Now let's talk a little bit about your surroundings.

Something to consider are the things in your home. Do you have anything sitting on a shelf, hanging on a wall, or any where else in your home that makes you sad, angry, or depressed because of a memory that it brings to mind? You should remove these things from your home or at least from sight. All the things in your home should bring a smile to your face or be neutral. Taking this small step can reduce stress, lower anxiety, and increase happiness.

What else brings you a smile? Perhaps a funny movie. Take the time to slow down and watch it. Is it a hot bath with rose petals in it? Is it a special time with your loved one? Is it buying something (just not too expensive or too much especially if you are manic)? What about playing a computer or video game? Reading a book? Going to a botanical garden or the zoo? Take the time to write down all the things that make you happy especially the little things that are easy to do. Keep this list close by and easy to access. Review it often and take time out of every day to do at least one thing from the list. Life is too short to go through it without smiling.

I hope you gained some useful insights, and for more information visit me at www.thrivingwithbipolardisorder.com

You can follow me on twitter at www.twitter.com/thrivingbipolar

I wish you the best in all your pursuits.

Author: Cassandra L. Good