Today people are celebrating the International Day of Happiness. Is it possible to be happy or to maintain happiness during a pandemic? Yes, I think so. First let’s look at the definition. According to Merriam-Webster the word happiness means “a state of wellbeing and contentment.” Now, I take this to mean that it is a mindset or a decision you make. I can determine to be happy or not even in the middle of a crazy situation. In thinking about the decision to be happy, this year’s theme is “Keep Calm, Stay Wise and Be Kind.” I reflect on how relevant this theme is to the coronavirus and its one-year anniversary also this month.

Keep Calm. One of the biggest things that has exposed my resilience and maintained my happiness has been my ability to keep calm. It is not to say that there have not been days during this past year that I didn’t feel anxious, worried or stressed out. I remember last year dealing with my inaccessible mobile banking app and struggling with online grocery shopping. Both situations had me pulling my hair out and gritting my teeth! I ended up having to step back, regroup and figure out another solution. My mental health was not worth it in the end. I was determined to focus on the things I could control. To breathe. To remember the things to be thankful for in my life. I also stayed away from things that would cause me extra stress like watching too much news, scrolling social media and talking to people with negative energy.

Stay Wise. You don’t have to be old as dirt to be wise. I have learned over the years   to seek wisdom in multiple ways. Asking for help from God, people and even a frog. I also like to watch and pay attention to people around me. You can learn a lot from other people’s life experiences and mistakes. Things you can do or avoid. Lastly, seeking information from reputable sources. This I did especially when the virus struck. Checking out multiple sources of information and doing some research has helped me maintain my happiness during this pandemic. It has relieved my stress and worry. Helping me to stay focus and centered.

Be Kind. I have always been told it doesn’t take much to be kind to someone. It can be in your speech or in your actions. During this past year and even now, the coronavirus has got people on edge. Folks got a short fuse and it don’t take much these days to set someone off. Even this cancel culture where the slightest thing said or done goes viral and a person can get shutdown.  I have to remind myself that people got a lot going on. To not make the wrong assumptions and to give the benefit of the doubt. To slow down and to be kind.

Kindness can come out in being considerate and showing compassion. Many people are grieving. Whether it has been the loss of a love one or friend to COVID-19. The loss of employment or a business. The loss of experiences like proms, parties, graduations, and special celebrations. The loss of meeting with others on a regular basis. People are grieving so being kind can go a long way in showing that you care.

I have also been able to maintain my happiness during this pandemic by indulging in things I love like reading books and watching movies. I have kept a daily work schedule and exercise routine. Having some kind of normalcy has made me happy and given me a feeling of control over my life. Realizing this too shall pass has helped me too. Of course, I have no idea how long we will continue to be in this shut down but I know it will not be forever. I know that perseverance is in order. Staying focus on the end goal of keeping safe. Practicing the 3 W’s: Wash your hands, wear a mask and watch your distance.  Lastly, knowing that the vaccine is here and we are turning a corner has given me some peace and joy.