A lot of time and money is spent on finding out what makes us happy. University researchers are hunched over questionnaires, crunching numbers to create a formula for that most elusive emotion. (Which would make the aforementioned researchers most unhappy.) So I woke up this morning and decided to list the simple things that make me smile:
Finding milk in the fridge for breakfast:
There appears to be an unusual form of evaporation in our house, targeting milk instead of water. It’s the same with toilet paper. Perhaps our university friends could look into that.
The first bittersweet sip of coffee:
Accompanied by a witty remark from a friendly barista, there’s no better start to the morning.
The honesty of a child:
“Why is your bum so wobbly?” asks a four year old girl at the centre where I work.
Travelling to a new place, whether it’s just around the corner or on the other side of the world:
A few weeks ago I found a spot at Manly Beach where the little penguins waddle up the beach at sunset.
Cooking the perfect roast chook:
It’s deeply satisfying when you cut into flesh that’s moist, but not too pink.
Doing something – anything for charity:
Giving makes you feel good. Better than getting.
Hearing a song that reminds you of that first blush of youth:
Today on the radio it was Ian Dury & The Blockhead’s Reasons To Be Cheerful. Some of his reasons are similar – porridge, wine, and equal rights. What are the simple things that make you happy?
