Welcome to the Good Life Chronicles, where living a good life takes center stage.
Living a Good Life isn’t always easy—not because it’s out of reach, but because we rarely stop to ask for what we want. Sometimes we don’t even realize we have the right to choose. Maybe we weren’t raised that way. Maybe we learned to take what we’re given and be grateful. But here’s the truth: we do have a choice. And knowing what brings us joy and then having the courage to ask for it is where the Good Life begins.
It’s not about money either. Spend time with someone who earned their wealth, and you’ll see they’re not chasing price tags; they’re choosing what brings the most happiness. Tacos on the beach can far outweigh a stiff, 5-star dinner that leaves you feeling hungry and invisible. Then again, sometimes that 5-star splurge is worth it, and you’re glad you said yes. Learning the difference is everything.
Here’s a simple example: I like my coffee hot, dark, sweet, and milky. If any one of those things is missing, I’d rather skip it. My friend, on the other hand, will happily drink the dregs of a pot that’s gone cold. Same coffee, same pot, but very different preferences. I’m not right and she’s not wrong. What matters is that we each know what works for us.
And that’s the point: every small decision has the power to increase or decrease your happiness. The key is to choose deliberately and say it out loud. Like this:
“I’d prefer Option A. It’ll make me happier than Option B.”
Simple. Direct. Respectful. And surprisingly effective.
A bit of humor also helps, especially when you’re stuck debating whether buttercream or lemon spice will make your afternoon better and everyone’s waiting on you to choose.
You won’t always get it right. I still make what I call “happiness fails” and end up disappointed. But I remember those times, and I choose differently the next time. That’s how we learn.
You choose a Good Life—one small decision at a time.
Not what others want. Not what influencers sell. Not what rich people seem to choose. You. Your happiness. Your call.
This week, my Good Life choice?
I went to The Guild, a place I really like. But this time, I said:
“Please don’t bring the food too soon. I want to enjoy this as an experience. I’m not just here to eat.”
Those who know me know that slow eating and good conversation matter to me. I asked for it, and they delivered. We lingered. We talked. The pace was perfect.
Small choice.
Medium ask.
Maximum joy.
That’s how you live a Good Life… by deciding it every step of the way.
What small decisions are you making and asking for to build your Good Life?
Share it in the comments here or below depending on your platform.
While you’re here!
If you like the idea of happiness and feel someone in your life should too, pass along this newsletter. They can sign up at www.happinessmatters.org
If you want to be part of a growing community of people also choosing happiness, follow me on LinkedIn and Instagram.
Why not learn the skills of happiness? Sign up to my course here, where I share scientifically tested strategies to help you build a better life. You can also “gift” the course to others. Say hi to get a discount code!
Have a great week!
Responses