If you had a choice in your life between having friendships or money, what would you choose? I suppose it depends what you are looking for, but if it's for a longer, healthier life, I suggest your choose friendship. You probably already knew that.

Are you a man? Do you want to add about 7 years to your life? If the answer is yes, then find yourself a wife. For women, being married may add 4 years to yours.

Do you have meaning in your life? Do you believe in something bigger than yourself? Your spirituality or your religion may also not only bring you piece but also longevity.

What about your values? If you live life in that manner that supports what you believe and stand for and these make you happy, you add years to your life.

Being content may bring you piece of mind. When you are emotionally satisfied it seems your live is easier. How you feel on the inside of yourself will have an effect on how you live your life on the outside.

So, how do you figure out how to be content with who you are and what you have? How can you get to a place in your life where you accept that what you have is enough and more will not make you happier?

Suppose you strive to be happy, it's your goal in life. That could present a real problem if you think happiness is something you were born with, especially if you believe you weren't.

You might be pleased to learn that you are not doomed to a future of unhappiness or even just plain blah! A higher level of happiness can be achieved by some simple exercises and by focusing on the good things in your life. Alter your perspective, change how you view occurrences in your life and you may be surprised by the results.

You can't always change the world around you or others behavior but you can change how you react to it. That certainly gives you some power into your future happiness and the life you wish to live.

The reality is, and there is no secret here, that you move between happiness and unhappiness throughout your life. For most of you, the goal is to be happier more often than not. In order to achieve this goal, it will be easier if you are open-minded, flexible and optimistic. Does this sound like a tough assignment? Look at it this way; I suspect it's easier than trying to control the persons, places and things around you! Changing how you view your life is a much simpler and more rewarding goal!

Speak in a positive manner, use your strengths, live through your morals and virtues and you will find contentment and happiness.

BlueWaterArticles.com: - HappinessWere You Born With Or Without It If Not Can You Get It

About the Author

Kim Kirmmse Toth is a certified life coach. She works with baby boomers on the many transitions faced including the non-financial side of retirement planning. She may be contacted at: kim@myretirementbydesign.com or at her website: http://www.myretirementbydesign.com