National
Find happiness in the letters of "Great Dream"─── CHRISTAL-LIZE MULLER 05:00 Mon, 20 Mar 2017
The United Nations’ International Day of Happiness is a global celebration annually on March 20. The campaign is coordinated by a non-profit movement, Action for Happiness, that consists of people from 160 countries.
Former Secretary General of the United Nations, Ban Ki-moon, endorsed the day that was celebrated for the first time in 2013.
This comes after the UN General Assembly in 2011 adopted a resolution which recognises happiness as a "fundamental human goal".
It then called for a more inclusive equitable and balanced approach to economic growth, promoting the happiness and welfare of all people.
Johannesburg Coordinator for this London based charity, Richard Hawkey, shared some of the organisation's ideas of practical types of things people can do that will contribute to their happiness, with OFM News’ Christal-Lize Muller. Hawkey says each initial in the phrase 'Great Dream' stands for something that contributes to happiness.
Giving
If a person gives to others it makes the giver feel good and happy. "Do small things to make a difference."
Relating
Connect with people. "We are emotional creatures before we are intellectual creatures."
Exercising
Be active
Appreciating
"Take time to notice the world around you."
Trying out
"Keep learning new things."
Direction
"Set goals for yourself."
Resilience
"Find ways to bounce back because life is going to happen (good or bad)."
Emotions
Take a positive approach and be balanced in one’s emotions.
Acceptance
Be comfortable with who you are.
T
Meaning
Being part of something bigger provides a sense of positivity.