It seems to be a sacred quest that everyone is on. All we want in life is happiness — fulfillment. The question is this, "Where and how do we find happiness?"

We often put our hope in material things. Being that we are often falsely given the impression that things will bring us happiness, we look to spend and be mere consumers. Do you ever indulge in retail therapy? Guilty.

I challenge you to think differently. I often find happiness in simplicity. In being surrounded by nature, I find the greatest and purest joy. By being near positive people and in warm environments, I feel alive. It's important to keep in mind that happiness doesn't just happen...it's more of a state of mind. Our own thoughts are so powerful. They drive us to pick a certain outfit, listen to a certain song and respond in a given way. Our innermost thoughts may seem quiet, but they are constantly roaring within us.

People often say that we should get back to the basics…why not do that? Sometimes starting from scratch can bring us greater pleasure than we can imagine.

What's something that you've done in the last week that has genuinely made you happy? Can you think of one thing that you really wanted to do? Can you think of several?

In the last week, I've traveled, climbed a mountain and some ruins, done word searches, sat in a plaza of a small town and looked around and listened. Those things made me happy. They made me feel calm. I felt present in each and everyone of those moments because I allowed myself to be present. I wasn't bombarded by other thoughts. I allowed myself to stop, breathe and completely take in the moment. We do not do that enough.

Finding that balance is difficult and sometimes seems unreachable, but it is possible. Despite hectic schedules and long days, we can always make time for ourselves...if we want to. So if there's something on your mind that you've been wanting to do...do it. Don't make any more excuses...just go and take care of yourself. If you're not OK, you can't ultimately help others, no matter how much we want to — it's both draining and physically and emotionally taxing. I think that a large part of happiness is how we treat others and choose to coexist with them.

So with this, I will end. We aren't handed an easy, happy and fulfilling life. No, on the contrary, life can be rough. But it's those small yet powerful thoughts running through our minds that have the power of influence. We don't always give our thoughts that much credit, but we honestly should.

Don't just look for a happy life...make one for yourself.