We all have moments in our lives that define us, whether they are good moments or really terrible ones. The things we've seen, the places we've gone, the people we are surrounded by- all have an impact on who we are.

All our memories have weight, and whether something happened a minute ago or three years ago- it doesn't really matter. It could be traumatic or incredible, both experiences can affect how we think for years.

That's why feeling 'happy' is a fleeting moment for some, while it's an everyday feeling for others. It can be extremely hard to live in the present with a dark past looming over us. For some, it is impossible to have a good moment without instantly flashing back to our terrible past. There are moments we can't stop reliving, no matter how much time has passed.

Our past can be what makes it so hard to have good thoughts. When we're dwelling on our hardships and were not mentally our best, finding happiness is easier said than done. If most of your life has been filled with pain and disappointment, it can be even harder to think happy thoughts.

But the good news is, there is a reason to believe in the power of positivity and "happy thoughts."

While your past may be dark, your future is so bright. Do you know why? Because you have no idea what the future holds. Good news could be coming, and exactly what you need to hear may be on its way.

You've stayed hopeful and positive through all your struggles before, so don't stop now. You have a good mentality because you haven't stopped fighting for yourself. You may not always be smiling, but there is plenty in your life to smile about.

You will not lose your way and you will not have negative thoughts. If you think of one thing that brings you joy or has in the past, you're on your way to having happy thoughts. Think about your immediate family, your friends, your work family- those are happy thoughts.

If you continue to find ways to have happy thoughts, you will have better days.

Every day is a different experience, and we're old enough now to know we can't expect every day to be a good day. But if you continue to keep your head up, you will have better days. You will prosper and grow.

You, my friend, are going to make it.