Where did you find that happiness? I created it myself.

I know that stuff won’t make me happy. It won’t make you happy. Well, sometimes the pretty little things bring pleasure. But on the whole it isn’t the stuff. It’s the way we interact with the world. The ways we get filled up. We have to take some responsibility for that - find those things. Engage with them. Make our own happiness.

A few weeks ago I made this post on Instagram:

We aren’t THAT deep into the winter, but the older I get (48 now), the harder winter gets. I know this and plan ahead: get some strategies in place. Regular coffee dates. A few well-placed naps. Walks. Trips to the Schvitz. LOTS of upbeat music. Reaching out to collaborate, staying inspired. Even indulging in a LITTLE malaise; honoring the rhythm - - generally making my own happiness and finding contentment even with a mild case of SAD.

A few folks got in touch to say that they were inspired by the post to go DO that thing that makes them happy. It takes exertion to get out in sub-zero temps to go to the gym! I’m delighted to have this whimsical picture be the reminder to go out and make some of that happiness for yourself.

The brain is resilient, and works a bit like a muscle. The muscle resists change and complains and aches until it builds up with practice. Our brains are a little like that too. The brain gets complacent, lazy and comfortable. It will complain about change.

But with practice, like with that muscle, it gets easier: practice those strategies as we get into the morass of winter in Michigan. Make some happiness for yourself.

At Alchemy I desire to inspire toward contentment through art, human connection and services.