Nothing is worth it if you aren’t happy. Everybody has goals. Maybe not written down, step-by-step plans, but something they want to achieve. And me? I just want to be happy. Life happens and takes us by surprise, it weighs us down and it becomes easy to get wrapped up in everything. The world is a crazy place and with everything going on, it can be especially difficult to think positively. I’ve heard that success or love or money would make a person happy, and while those can contribute, there are so many reasons to be happy that we often forget about. Happiness is something we strive for, but we don’t find it. It’s always there, you just have to find a way to let it out.

1. Watch silly shows.

Watch the shows you want to watch. Do you like watching reality TV? Or cartoons? Or ridiculous teen dramas? Then, good for you. It makes you happy.

2. Eat the chocolate cake.

Or cookies or candy or whatever else is bad for you. It makes you happy. A little indulgence every once in a while is not horrible and shouldn’t be frowned upon. You could get hit by a bus tomorrow and your last thoughts could be “Boy, I wish I would have had that pie.” (Maybe a little far-fetched, but it could happen.)

3. Don’t be afraid to be passionate about something.

I am madly, deeply in love with Disney and I will proudly admit to knowing all the words to every song from "Frozen." If you’re part of a fandom, don’t be ashamed! If you are a Bears fan in Wisconsin, rep the blue and orange! Be proud to support what you love no matter what others say. Hey, it makes you happy!

4. Sleep. You know you want to.

Now, I’m not saying to sleep until noon every single day, but a nap now and then doesn’t hurt. Going to bed early on a Friday doesn’t make you lame. Sleeping in on a Saturday doesn’t make you lazy. It makes our body wind down from the day and repair itself which will make us focus and be more positive when we get up. Who wouldn’t want to wake up feeling happier?

5. Dress in a way that makes you feel good.

I for one, always have a bit more pep in my step while wearing my favorite dress. But I also am known to be in my pajamas at three in the afternoon because being comfy is just the best thing ever. So you want to wear sweatpants and a big t-shirt? Go for it! You want to do your makeup for no reason? Work it! That is an art! As long as you’re happy.

6. Go outside.

A lot of us are cooped up in our dorms, houses, or workplace day after day. A little fresh air is always a good cure. Even if it’s just sitting on your porch or taking a stroll around the block, it will take your mind off of things. A change of pace is always a nice way to have a happy moment during a stressful day.

7. Exercise.

I know, I know, I don’t want to either. Either you don’t like it, it takes up time, or you just think it’s unnecessary. Find the activity you like doing, whether it’s running, playing tennis, doing yoga, lifting weights, or even just going for a long walk. Trust me though, you will actually feel better, healthier, and happier.

8. Be grateful for what you have.

For your family, friends, home, everything. If you were to list everything you have, every name that pops into your mind, the list would be longer than you think. And if it’s not, add my name. I want you to be happy.

9. Surround yourself with good company.

Weed out those toxic people in your life. Any negative energy only leads to negative thoughts or feelings. Good people bring out the good in people. You need people who will make you laugh, who are kind, who you would enjoy eating pizza with. They should make you happy.

10. Be good company.

Be the light in someone else’s life. I know that a simple passing smile can go a long way, as it has for me on many dull mornings. Make someone’s day! The type of attitude you exert has the amazing ability to brighten someone’s day or week or even life. Be the little bit of happiness in your friend’s bad day.

11. Love the little things.

Thunderstorms, being barefoot, a garden of flowers, a new movie trailer, the smell of crayons, dancing and singing despite my complete lack of talent. These are all small things that make me smile to myself. I almost don’t even realize how content I feel, yet here I am writing about them. Find your little things to be happy about.