All too often do we tend to get caught up in the rush of life. School, work, relationships, family, friends, health, our future, the list goes on and on. We forget to enjoy the little things in life, that are actually the big things we should remember. Happiness does not just come from success or love. It is found in the scenes of everyday life that we too often overlook. Here are some examples of what happiness truly is.

Happiness is…

Wiggling around in freshly washed sheets after a long day. The smell and feel of clean sheets are the keys to a good nights’ sleep. Turning off all electronics and worries and just lying there with your eyes closed is so relaxing. Letting your mind turn off and just enjoying the now. You’re guaranteed to sleep better.

Happiness is…

Waking up before the sun when everything around you is still. Enjoying the silence before your day starts is calming, and allows your body and mind to wake up slowly.

Happiness is…

The smell of coffee while it's brewing in the morning. Have you ever seen those cheesy coffee commercials where they close their eyes and smell the coffee, and then get this weird smile? Yeah, do that. Do exactly that. You won’t be sorry.

Happiness is…

Steamy, hot showers when you have nowhere to be. Showering becomes more of a chore than a luxury. We do the basics to get out in time to get on with our day. Enjoying your shower on a lazy day is so relaxing. Taking the time to actually massage your head during a shampoo, or using a moisturizing body wash will make you feel like a brand new person.

Happiness is…

Breathing in the cold morning air. Take a second while walking to your car to just breathe in through your nose and out through your mouth a few times. The rush of cool air wakes up your brain. Living in the country is the best because you never know if you’re going to get the smell of cool, crisp air, or cow poop. Eh, whatever, you get used to it.

Happiness is…

Enjoying your morning commute by jamming to some of your favorite tunes. Don’t listen to radio news or talk shows. Get in the right mood by hooking up your aux cord and singing your heart out. I am no scientist, but I am pretty sure this will get your endorphin's pumping and your day will go better.

Happiness is…

Actually taking the time to look at the leaves changing colors. I don’t know what it is, but I find it amazing that leaves change colors through the season. It kind of makes me think that no matter what I may be going through at that point in time, the world is going to keep on, and I should too.

Happiness is…

Watching the rain from inside your cozy house. Rain is calming, and nothing is better than cuddling up with a warm blanket and a good book and some coffee while mother nature does her thing. The sound is calming, and you almost get a feeling of safeness inside.

Happiness is…

A night with absolutely nothing to do with your favorite someone. Whether it’s your significant other or your best friend, knowing you have the night to do whatever you want is the best. Rather you sit there in silence and just enjoy each other’s being, or laugh the night away over a bottle of wine, just appreciating them makes the heart feel full.

Happiness is…

Taking time to acknowledge a clear night sky full of stars. Just stand there for a second and look up. It will amaze you to realize that there is something much bigger up there. That we are just a little product of what this Earth is made of. It’s even better if you can do this with the person you love.

These are just a few of the things I find happiness in. Everyone is different, so everyone is going to have different happiness. If you’ve been feeling down lately, take the time to notice your happy. Happiness isn’t about getting what you want all the time. It’s about loving what you have and being grateful for it.