A few months ago, I wrote about my “happy box.” I got a lot of comments about it and so I wanted to go into some more detail here. Basically, I put things in my happy box that make me happy. When I get depressed or down, I pull it out and leaf through it for inspiration and a lift. In doing this, I’m also inspired by The Happiness Project and wanted to share something that contributes to my happiness. I hope that I inspire you to find some of your own happiness. Feel free to borrow my idea - but remember that what makes me happy is going to be different than what makes you happy.
First, you’ll need a box. I used an old photo box until it was too small. This is what I’ve been using for the past few months:
I have a variety of “stuff” in my happy box. Since I’m a knitter, I have a swatch and photo of my first sweater…
I also thought it was important to put my favorite book in my happy box….
It’s by Eva Ibbotson. True, it’s sappy. But it makes me happy, and that’s the point of my happy box. I also have some more sentimental stuff in there - like letters and notes from my parents and family (that say more than just “we miss you.” - things like “we’re proud of you…”)….
I also have notes and cards from my residents from when I was an RA. I have a few from my current RAs that I supervise - and after they get taken off my refridgerator, I’ll put them in this box too….
I also have a note of encouragement from my grandpa (who is no longer with us)… I’d forgotten I had this and when I found it last spring, I cried as I read it….
Of course, I also have plenty of photos - of family, my awesome summer working at the yarn store (click the photo to see tags of who is who and stories behind them….)
And finally… I like to have things that make me laugh. Like this article for example…
It’s an article about a bunch of old women who tried to register for the army and staged a protest when the army wouldn’t accept them. It’s full of humor, wisdom and the best things in life. It makes me smile.
That’s a collection of some of the stuff in my happy box. What would you have in your happy box?
