My 4 year old son asked me this question –“When was the happiest time of your life?” It is a good question to ponder.
For me it was when I was in 2nd grade. I can name other happy times (like now) but this year would be one of my “happiest.”
The next question to think about is, “What was it about that time that made you so happy?”
For me, that year was FUN. I did well and loved what I was learning. I was not stressed or worried about excelling – getting good grades and getting everything done. I had good friends and remember playing lots of active games on the playground – ultimate Frisbee was my favorite, tag, swinging on the swings.
This was the year I made the gymnastics team. I had never wanted anything so much in my life and I still remember seeing my name on the list and how overjoyed and excited I was to make the team. I remember having things to do but having a feeling of freedom and expansiveness with time.
In hindsight I think of this as a time of innocence. I was old enough to communicate what I wanted and what I was thinking but I was not yet caught up in getting good grades and trying to be perfect at everything and pleasing others. I put a lot of stress on myself as I got older. This time of my life I had confidence, was doing well and not concerned about failing or looking stupid. I remember how much I loved reading, coloring, and even making a book. I had fun in all areas of my life – at home with my family, at school, with my extra-curricular activities and just playing with friends and neighbors outside.
What can we learn from these questions and thinking back on these happy times?
It can give you some guidelines or help in creating more happiness in your life now.
My lessons are to:
- be active, read and learn new things
- NOT put so much pressure on myself
- incorporate or create more “free” time to do the things I love and
- spend time with the people I enjoy and care about.
These may sound too general for you, but for me being able to remember and actually feel what I did as a 7 year old provides some valuable guidance in creating more happiness for myself now.
Wishing you joy and happiness,
Tara
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