Have you heard of the new book, The Happiness Project? This is SO up my alley. The author, Gretchen Rubin, spent a year trying different antecdotes for happiness. She pulled happiness theories from all over the place - different cultures and eras (from Aristotle to Oprah) - tested them out and then wrote about her findings in this book.
This is especially interesting to me because I consider myself a student of happiness. In fact, a few years ago, I went on my own little happiness journey where I gave some serious thought to joy and whether or not it could be consciously increased. Along my journey, I documented all of my "ah ha" moments. I also collected quotes and thoughts from people I thought were on to something. My personal favorite is the apostle, Paul.
I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. I know what it is to be in need and to have plenty. I have learned the secret to being content in every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. I can do everything through Him who gives me strength. - Philippians 4:11
What I have personally found is that thinking about happy things helps bring out the happiness from within you.
So when I came across this book, I bubbled with excitement! I also came across the authors blog here http://www.happiness-project.com/
I think she might like lists as much as me too! I'll close with my favorite bible quote ever from Philippians 4:8:
Whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable - if anything is excellent or praiseworthy - think about such things. Whatever you have received or heard from me or seen in me - put into practice. And the God of peace will be with you. - Philippians 4:8
