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Writer's pictureTONI DEE

Happiness Happens

Updated: Oct 21, 2023

It is safe to assume that people want one key thing in life and that is HAPPINESS.

A happy mind allows us to live a longer and more satisfying life.


A group called the Secret Society of Happy People was the brainchild of Pamela Gail Johnson in August 1998.

Ms. Johnson felt that most people kept from talking about their happy feelings and suppressed their joy.

The group found that telling happy stories, sharing good memories with each other, laughing together, and having an attitude of gratitude brightened their moods and helped them feel cheerful. It gave a positive environment and helped them see the joy in their lives.

Over the years, more and more people have talked about how to find, get, spread and be happy. With that, the popularity of the Society grew — so much so, they outgrew the need for secrecy!

In 2019, the group became simply the Society of Happy People.

Their slogan is, “Are you happier than you admit you are?.”


The group has 2 mottos:

“Happiness Happens” and “Don’t Even Think of Raining on My Parade”.


In 2000, the Society decided to take their celebration on a global platform and declared August 8 as ‘Happiness Happens Day’ and the whole month of August as the ‘Happiness Happens’ month.


The idea behind this month is to encourage people to recognize and appreciate the happiness that can be found in everyday experiences, interactions, and activities, to focus on and celebrate the simple joys and positive moments in life.


During Happiness Happens Month, individuals and organizations often engage in various activities and initiatives to promote positivity, gratitude, and well-being. It can include sharing inspirational stories, practicing acts of kindness, expressing gratitude, and participating in events that bring joy and happiness to others. Cultivating a positive mindset and focusing on the good aspects of life can contribute to overall well-being.

People can seek happiness out of love, work, personal interests, social time, animals... the list is endless. However, happiness is not the same for everyone.

Think about and make a list of what makes you happy.


Here is a sample list to get your juices flowing.

  • Pets

  • Green surroundings

  • Being outside

  • Regular exercise

  • Spa days

  • Being with friends

  • Fun adventures

  • Watching funny movies or shows

  • Sharing time with loved ones

  • Self-care

  • Purging unhappy thoughts

  • Don't feed into the negativity

  • Smile

  • Express gratitude

  • Volunteering

  • Giving to others

  • Encourage and lift others up

  • Reminisce about good things

  • Choosing happiness


Did you know that Adults smile, on average, 20 times per day, which is a fraction of that of a child who smiles 400 times per day!


SMILE with your whole face and body. Be a 'Smile starter'

The world needs more happy people. Happiness is contagious


My life motto

Be Fantastic and grateful... Everyday!


A few facts about how happiness is brought into the mainstream.


EARLY 1880's

Happy Hour - Women’s social clubs begin holding social events referred to as ‘Happy Hour Club’ or ‘Happy Hour Social Club’


1912

"Happy Birthday to You" song.

The lyrics and melody to the famous birthday song appear in print for the first time with no credit references or copyrights.


January 15, 1974

“Happy Days”

The popular television sitcom airs for the first time, running through 1984


Oct 1977

Happy Meals

McDonald’s introduces a packaged children’s meal, complete with a toy, in the Kansas City market — it rolls out nationally in 1979.


1989

Truvy (Dolly Parton) said in “Steel Magnolias,” “Smile, it increases your face value!”









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