I asked six amazing girls who are either my family or very close friends these three simple yet strangely difficult questions; are you happy, what things in life make you happy, and what does happiness mean to you. I asked them to give as little or much detail as they wanted. Here are their lovely responses, you'd be surprised how it could change your perspective.
1. Are you happy?
"Being happy for me is very interesting. I am always able to find temporary happiness whether it is with friends, food, and family. However, it's not always the case. I suffer from unhappiness most days for reasons I have no idea why. But overall, when I'm happy I am genuinely happy and it's not fake." -Amber
"Sometimes yes, sometimes not as much. I don't know if anyone is completely happy 100% of the time." -Carly
"Yes." -Amelia
"I'm genuinely happy even when things get rough, I am overall always happy." -Kristina
"I'm sort of happy-I feel kind of stuck right now. I miss Europe and what's there." -Katie
"I'm happy for the most part other than when I'm stressed over school." -Shan
2. What things in life make you happy?
"Being happy comes from my three F's, family, food, and friends. When my friends and family are happy, I can't help be happy as well. It's not much myself, though, I do find it. " -Amber
"Not so
"My friends, family, animals, food, travel, and success." -Amelia
"Family (dogs included) and friends are the things that make me most happy in life. I also am able to experience something every day that makes me happy even if its small." -Kristina
"Whenever I'm not stressed, I'm happy so as long as there are no worries. Being with friends and family and traveling makes me happy. And of course, music." -Katie
"Things that make me happy would be my friends, family, and always having something to do; whether it be sorority events, work, or hanging out with friends." -Shan
3. What does happiness mean to you?
"Happiness is a daily goal for me. I strive to reach this goal every day and although I don't, I am hopeful one day I will." -Amber
"Happiness means something that makes you comfortable and content. So to be completely happy, you are living a life that is free of stress and negativity." -Carly
"Happiness isn't something that can be obtained through how much money you have or how popular you are. Happiness comes from within. It's knowing who you are and letting that shine. It's being content with the people and the things you have around you. And most importantly, it's just enjoying each day as it comes and never taking a thing for granted." -Amelia
"Happiness means being surrounded by loving family and friends and being able to love yourself. I am able to make the greatest memories that I'll cherish forever." -Kristina
"Happiness to me is when everything has fallen into place." -Katie
"Happiness means that you are satisfied with your life and the people and things that make up your life. You can put your head down at night knowing you are living the best life you can be." -Shan
If you couldn't tell there is a pattern, happiness doesn't have a true and single definition. It differs from person to person. But the most important thing in all of these responses was how important the people are who surround you.
You could have everything in the world but if you don't have your family or friends in your life, happiness is near to impossible. You need someone to share all the amazing moments with, to spread love, and receive that love in return.
Yes, happiness is perceived differently by each person but at the end of the day, we are just trying to find the same thing. This Thanksgiving, take the time to really appreciate your loved ones.
