Most people are looking for happiness and long for that true feeling of success, peace and serenity. It\’s what we all strive for in our “fast-paced, get-stuff-done” type of lifestyle. Being happy is a choice you face every day of your life. And while we all know that happiness can help with stress, did you also know that it can be a decisive factor in your success, your rise to the top.

The pursuit of happiness begins with learning to slow down and have fun. Taking just ten minutes a day can make a huge difference in your life. Not taking that 10 minutes a day to recharge your batteries and keep your energy tank on full, is like trying to run your car on empty; you are stuck, you can\’t go anywhere, you have nothing left to give. Just ten minutes a day allows you to be the best you can be for your family, your business, and especially yourself. This can be ten minutes to listen to your favorite music, or ten minutes just to go out and smell the roses (literally). Although, there are no right or wrong ways to do this, find what works for you, your style, your needs, and your schedule. Keep it simple so it feels more like a lifestyle change than a chore.

It\’s also important to celebrate and treasure your talents and strengths within for true happiness. Realizing we are all born with “gold nuggets” is a hard concept for many people to believe about themselves. You need to rise above the self-doubt and lack of confidence to find your true magnificence. Think about your strengths and personality qualities and make a list. So often times we all focus on the negatives of what is wrong with us. Instead, focus on the positives and see how magnificent you truly are.

Another way to fulfill your pursuit of happiness is to give back. How great does it feel when you do something for someone else and expect nothing in return? How great does it feel to know that you are making a difference in the lives of others? Think about what you can do to give back. The good thing is it doesn\’t always take money; your time can be just as valuable. One way Winberg is giving back is by donating half of the proceeds of her book, Rising to the Top to the Music Therapy program for the Children\’s Hospital Boston. Music Therapy provides distraction and temporary pain relief for the young patients. Think of ways that you can use your products or services to benefit others and then go out there and do it.

Joanie Winberg Founder of the Fresh Start after Divorce Community

Joanie is the Founder of the Fresh Start after Divorce community, author of Rising to the Top, A Guide to Self Development and hosts her own radio show called The Happy Wednesday Broadcast. She is also the Founder of the Happy Wednesday Foundation, whose mission statement is to provide a healthy lifestyle for all children, women and families through educational programs and affordable housing.