I’m just about certain that there’s not a formula for happiness, otherwise it would be for sale on cable TV.

Happiness is a state of mind that comes and goes and it doesn’t seem to have permanent roots no matter what state you choose to live in.

That being said, there seems to be a carrot you can hang on a stick to lure happiness back into town, at least for a while.

I’ve found that you can jumpstart happy thoughts with this technique. It’s not a cure-all but it is a remedy that, when used, can attract the healing that happiness brings.

Here’s the tip: Have something to look forward to.

It acts as a magnet for happiness when happiness isn’t around.

I’ve come to realize that living in the moment is the most rewarding way of living but we don’t do it all the time. Perhaps if we did, we’d be happy more often. The next best thing is to have something worth looking forward to.

It’s not something we dwell on; it’s just a thought to bring to mind when we find that happiness has left town.

It doesn’t have to be anything monumental that we look forward to; just something that brings some ease to our mind and a little warmth to our body.

It’s not the escapism of fantasy, which is also fun; it’s something real that you can put your finger on – something that will happen.

I rarely use the word “always,” but in this case I will make an exception. Always have something to look forward to. It’s a force that will pull you forward.

Once you experience the something you were looking forward to, make sure to have another something at the ready. If you’re a woman, think of this technique as having tissues in your purse. (I’m not sure I’ve met a woman who doesn’t carry tissues). They’re there in the event you need them.

Having something to look forward to will be there when you need it. Make sure to have it tucked away in your pocket or your purse.

All the best,

John