Review: Smile, And the World Smiles, Too
Rating: 4 out of 5
Date: 10 15, 2013
As I write this review and as I read this book, the prevailing stories of the day broadcast the hopelessness of a broken (and broke) government in the midst of a shutdown and on the verge of financial default. Many of my colleagues and associates are stuck on a figurative shelf, receiving no pay or work until this debacle plays itself out.That's what hits home here, where I sit. For you, it may be different, but chances are, if you think long and hard (or maybe it's not even that difficult), you can probably find plenty of circumstances to cause despair, sadness, anger, or any number of emotions. But what about happiness?What you might not realize - or, if you're like me, you might struggle to remember - is happiness is an emotion you choose to experience (or not experience). It's true that the circumstances around you can be overwhelming and, if you believe the media (both sides of the media), the outlook is bleak. So where does happiness come in? And how on earth can someone choose to be happy?Well, that's a different process for everyone. Fortunately, Bryan Hutchinson, a.k.a. the Positive Writer, has provided readers with a guide to being happy. Well, sort of. What he's done here is provide 26 practical actions you can take to help remember that happiness is a choice and one you should choose regularly.What I liked the best is that he doesn't blindly say "think happy thoughts" or "click your heels together" or even "ignore your surroundings." In fact, he's more telling us to embrace our surroundings and willfully shape them into what we hope and desire out of life. And happiness is the key to that.Weaving together quotes, personal thoughts, experiences, and assignments, Hutchinson creates a quick read that packs a significant punch. You can read it easily in one sitting, but if you act on it, it will take a lifetime. On the plus side, that lifetime will probably be better if you're practicing these tips and experiencing true happiness.By the way, I received a complimentary digital edition of this book from Story Cartel because I promised to write an honest review. It made me happy, honestly. (You should see what I wrote about those other books... )