They happen, sometimes when we least expect them. We receive that congratulatory text for our presentation. We hear one of our leadership suggestions has been adopted and successful. We notice the beautiful clouds in the sky, as if for the first time. These are all moments of happiness! No matter what else is occurring in our lives, they happen, and we can take a moment to embrace them.

It’s so normal to focus on the challenges. Our brains are wired to pay more attention to the painful or scary possibilities or situations than the positive experiences. This has enabled us to survive. It takes a little more effort to focus our attention on pleasurable moments, even the small ones. By choosing to take a moment to breathe in something good, we are not dismissing or ignoring loss or problems. We’re giving ourselves some relief, some kindness, some love. This makes getting through the tough times a little easier.

While this might sometimes seem impossible, the good news is we have the ability to do this. We only need to make the decision to be available to those moments, and then follow that up by learning how to grow those neuropathways so we notice those moments more easily. When we do, our brains change. The hormones of happiness flow. We smile. Through the amazing process of mirror neurons, we give others the permission to smile with us.

How do you grow those neuropathways? By first learning to recognize when you’re falling into a negative mindset for much longer than is necessary or helpful, and learning how to make a different choice. Mindfulness, breathwork, somatic exercises – all these can support you to make this shift. Pretty cool, huh?

So, next time you’re speaking, leading a meeting, or having a personal conversation, remind yourself to be open to those moments of happiness and embrace them. Consider growing new neuropathways. You will do yourself and everyone around you a huge favor, and your experience will be much more fulfilling, no matter what else is happening in your life or profession. If you’d like to learn how you can embrace your moments of happiness more easily, I’d love to support you. In the meantime, be well!