Steps to Success & Happiness

Dear Meagan,

Jeff & I have a friend/mentor who's wife recently passed away :/ And while that is a bit of sad news our friend wrote 11 steps to happiness and success based on her life; because she was a very happy, loving, and successful person, who can teach us a lot.

1. Be optimistic- This will permanently increase your happiness.
2. Stay close to friends & family- they bring more happiness than money.
3. Give to others- Have more concern for others than yourself.
4. Smile- Always makes you feel better, fake it if you have too.
5. Forgive- People who can forgive have better health than those who don't. Not forgiving someone hurts you more than it does them.
6. Make friends who share your interests or faith- This is  where your tumor and brain surgery/injury groups come in :)
7. Have faith.
8. Always have something in your calendar to look forward too- Even if it's as simple as a day in the park.
9. Follow your gut- Make decisions because they feel right and then make those decisions work.
10. Make enough money for your basic needs- Money won't buy you happiness but neither does being broke. The average American needs $40,000/year to cover their basic needs comfortably.
11. Find happiness in whatever it is you do in life- Find work you love and stay there. 83% of Americans don't like their jobs, be the 17%.

Hope this helps girlie :) I'm telling you the woman who this is based off of REALLY had it figured out. Short and sweet this week... I love you sis!

XOXO,

Brooke