Live Life Happy

Making the People You Love Smile

July 15, 2018 By LLH Leave a Comment

“Making the people you love smile is everything.”

Let’s dive into this beautiful gem. At its core, it’s all about the power of bringing joy to those who matter most to you—your family, your friends, the people who light up your world. It’s saying that one of the greatest things you can do in life is spark happiness in their hearts. Think about it: when you see someone you care about grin because of something you said or did, doesn’t that feel like a win? It’s like hitting the jackpot of good vibes.

Now, why does this matter so much? Well, life can be tough—school stress, work drama, or just those random bad days that sneak up on you. But when you make someone you love smile, it’s like you’re tossing a lifeboat into their stormy sea. That smile doesn’t just lift their mood; it reminds them they’re not alone. You’re showing them you care, that they’re worth your effort. And here’s the cool part: it’s not just about them. When they smile, you feel it too—like a warm glow inside. It’s a two-for-one deal on happiness.

Let’s break it down even more. “The people you love” could be your parents, your siblings, your best friend, or even a favorite teacher or neighbor who’s basically family. These are the folks you’d do anything for. And “making them smile” doesn’t have to be some big, fancy thing. It could be cracking a silly joke, helping with something they’re stuck on, or just listening when they need to vent. Small stuff can mean everything to someone who’s having a rough time.

And that last word—“everything”—it’s the big punch. It’s saying this isn’t just a nice bonus in life; it’s the main event. More important than chasing grades, money, or likes on your posts. Why? Because at the end of the day, what sticks with you isn’t the stuff you own or the trophies you win—it’s the moments you share with the people who make your heart full. When you make them smile, you’re building memories that last, and you’re reminding yourself what really counts.

So, next time you’re with someone you love, think: How can I get that smile going? Maybe it’s a goofy dance, a kind word, or just being there. It’s not about being perfect—it’s about showing up and spreading a little light. Because in a world that’s sometimes dark and messy, making the people you love smile? That’s the real magic. That’s everything.

Don’t Be Afraid to Lose People. Be Afraid of Losing Yourself…

June 27, 2018 By LLH 1 Comment

“Don’t be afraid to lose people. Be afraid of losing yourself by trying to please everyone around you.” – Author Unknown

This one hits hard because it’s all about figuring out what’s really worth worrying about in life. It’s telling you that holding onto every single person isn’t the goal—keeping the real you alive is what matters most. Let’s break it down…

Here’s the deal: not everyone is meant to stick around forever. People grow, change, or sometimes just drift away—and that’s okay. Maybe a friend starts acting shady, or someone keeps dragging you down. Letting them go doesn’t mean you’re cold; it means you’re brave enough to say, “This isn’t working for me.” The fear of losing them shouldn’t trap you into pretending everything’s fine when it’s not.

Picture this: you’re bending over backwards to make everyone happy. You say “yes” when you mean “no,” you hide your real opinions, or you act like someone you’re not just to fit in. Sound exhausting? It is. And the scariest part? You might wake up one day and realize you don’t even know who you are anymore. You’ve spent so much time being what others want that the real you—the one with your own dreams, quirks, and fire—has faded away.

Think about it like this: if you’re always trying to please your squad, your parents, your crush, your teachers, whoever—you’re basically juggling a million different versions of yourself. One slip, and it all crashes. That’s not living; that’s performing. And sure, it might keep people around for a while, but at what cost? If they only like the fake you, are they even worth keeping?

Here’s the truth: you can’t make everyone happy. Someone’s always going to disagree, judge, or walk away—no matter how hard you try. So why waste your energy chasing that impossible dream? Instead, focus on what keeps you grounded. What makes you laugh? What gets you fired up? That’s the stuff worth protecting. Losing a few people who can’t handle the real you is way less scary than losing the spark that makes you, well, you.

So, next time you’re stressing about pleasing someone, flip the script. Ask yourself: Am I still me in this moment? If the answer’s no, maybe it’s time to let go—not of them, but of the pressure to be their version of perfect. Because at the end of the day, the person you’ve got to live with is you. Don’t lose that. That’s the real thing to fear.

Always Look Both Ways Before Crossing

June 24, 2018 By LLH Leave a Comment

“Always look both ways before crossing a woman.” – Author Unknown

Picture crossing a street. You look left, right, then left again—why? Because you don’t want to get blindsided by a car you didn’t see coming. Now swap “street” for “woman”. Be careful when you’re dealing with someone—especially a woman—who might have more going on than you realize. It’s not about being scared; it’s about being smart. Women, like anyone, can surprise you—with their strength, their feelings, or even their temper if you step on the wrong toe. So, “looking both ways” means pausing to think before you act or speak. Check the situation. What’s she feeling? What’s the vibe? Don’t just barrel through and hope for the best.

This isn’t about women being tricky or dangerous—it’s about respect. People are complicated, and rushing in without paying attention can get you in hot water. Maybe she’s had a rough day, or maybe she’s not in the mood for your usual sarcasm. If you “cross” her—say something dumb or push her buttons—without checking first, you might get a reaction you weren’t ready for. It’s like stepping into traffic without looking: you’re asking for trouble.

But let’s flip it too—it’s not just about avoiding a mess. It’s about building better connections. When you take a second to really see her, to understand where she’s at, you’re showing you care. That’s the kind of move that turns a quick chat into something real. So, “look both ways” is a reminder: slow down, pay attention, and don’t assume you’ve got it all figured out. Life’s too short for dumb misunderstandings.

If It Made You Smile… It Was Worth

June 23, 2018 By LLH Leave a Comment

“If it made you smile… it was worth it.”

Think about it. Life can get… well, heavy. We’re juggling work, school, family, bills, and a million other things that can sometimes feel like they’re weighing us down. We get caught up in the to-do lists, the deadlines, the things we should be doing. And sometimes, in all that hustle, we forget about the simple joy of a genuine smile.

This is a gentle reminder to pay attention to those moments. It’s about recognizing the things that bring a little light into our day, even if they seem small or insignificant to others.

What makes your heart do a little happy dance? What brings a genuine curve to your lips? It could be anything!

Maybe it’s the smell of freshly brewed coffee in the morning.
Perhaps it’s a silly joke your friend told you.
Maybe it’s watching a cute animal video online.
It could be the feeling of the sun on your face.
Or maybe it’s finally finishing that chapter in your favorite book.

These moments might seem fleeting, like little sparks in a long day. But they matter. They’re little doses of positivity that can actually make a big difference in how we feel overall.

“…it was worth it.”

This is where the real magic happens. This tells us that even if something didn’t result in a huge achievement, a massive paycheck, or widespread praise, it still had value because it brought you joy.

Think about times you might have hesitated to do something because it seemed “unproductive” or “a waste of time.” Maybe you spent an hour drawing, even though you’re not a professional artist. Maybe you watched a funny movie instead of doing chores. Maybe you took a detour on your walk just to admire a pretty flower.

Maybe it’s time for us to reconsider those moments? If they brought a smile to your face, they weren’t a waste at all. They were an investment in your well-being, a little boost of happiness that can actually fuel you to tackle those bigger tasks with more energy and a better attitude.

Why is this so important?

It combats negativity: Life throws curveballs. There will be days filled with stress and disappointment. Remembering the things that make you smile can be a powerful antidote to those negative feelings. It reminds you that there’s still good in the world and within your own experience.
It encourages self-care: Taking time for things that bring you joy is a form of self-care. It’s about nurturing your inner self and recognizing that your happiness matters.
It shifts your focus: Instead of constantly chasing external validation or material success, you should value internal experiences – the simple pleasure of a smile.
It makes life more enjoyable: Let’s be honest, life is meant to be lived! By paying attention to what makes you smile, you’re actively creating more moments of joy and making your journey a little brighter.

So, the next time you find yourself doing something that brings a genuine smile to your face, take a moment to acknowledge it. Don’t dismiss it as silly or unimportant. Embrace that feeling. Because in the grand scheme of things, those little moments of happiness? They’re absolutely, undeniably worth it.

What made you smile today? Take a moment to think about it. And then, go out there and find more reasons to smile tomorrow. Your happiness matters.

A Year from Now, What You’re Stressing About

June 22, 2018 By LLH Leave a Comment

“A year from now, what you’re stressing about won’t even matter. Let it go.”

In the end, most worries aren’t worth your time because they won’t stick around long-term. Think ahead— if it won’t bug you in a year, don’t let it ruin your day now. Drop the stress and save your energy for what really counts.

Imagine you’re freaking out today—maybe it’s a bad grade, a fight with your best friend, or some drama online that’s got you twisted up. Your heart’s racing, your mind’s spinning, and it feels like the end of the world. Now fast-forward a year. Where are you? Probably chilling somewhere, laughing with friends, or stressing about something totally different. That thing that’s eating you up today? Chances are, you won’t even remember the details. That’s the point here: most of the stuff we lose sleep over doesn’t stick around long enough to deserve all that energy.

Think about last year. What had you stressed out back then? Maybe you bombed a test or got ghosted by someone you liked. Does it still keep you up at night? Probably not. Life moves fast, and the things that feel like giants today shrink down to nothing over time. So why waste your energy on something that’s just passing through? “Let it go” isn’t about ignoring problems—it’s about picking what’s worth your fight. If it’s not going to matter in 12 months, why let it own you now?

Real talk: stressing doesn’t fix stuff. It just makes you feel worse while the clock keeps ticking. Letting go doesn’t mean you don’t care—it means you’re smart enough to save your energy for what lasts. Picture it like cleaning out your backpack. You don’t keep carrying around old gum wrappers or broken pencils—toss ‘em and make room for what’s next. Same with worries. If it’s not going to shape your future, drop it and move on.

So, next time you’re spiraling, ask yourself: Will this matter a year from now? If the answer’s no—or even maybe—give yourself permission to shrug it off. Focus on what’s good right now: your favorite song, a dumb meme, or just kicking back with people who get you. Life’s too big to get stuck on stuff that’s too small to last.

Surround Yourself with People Who Are Good for Your

June 22, 2018 By LLH Leave a Comment

“Surround yourself with people who are good for your mental health.”

Think of your mental health like a delicate plant. It needs sunlight (positive interactions), water (support and understanding), and healthy soil (a stable and encouraging environment) to thrive. Now, imagine that you’re diligently tending to this plant, giving it everything it needs. But what if you’ve got weeds growing around it, constantly sucking away its nutrients and blocking its light? Those “weeds,” my friends, can often be the people in our lives who, unintentionally or otherwise, drain our energy, fuel our anxieties, and dim our inner light.

Let’s break down what it truly means to surround yourself with people who are “good for your mental health”:

1. They are Sources of Positive Energy, Not Drains:

These are the people who leave you feeling energized after an interaction, not depleted. They uplift you with their optimism, their belief in you, and their genuine enthusiasm for life. They celebrate your wins, big or small, without envy. They don’t constantly complain or bring a cloud of negativity wherever they go. Think about those conversations where you hang up the phone or walk away feeling lighter, more motivated, and ready to tackle the world. Those are the connections you want to cultivate.

2. They Offer Genuine Support and Understanding:

Life throws curveballs. We all stumble, make mistakes, and face tough times. The people who are good for your mental health are the ones who offer a shoulder to lean on without judgment. They listen actively, validate your feelings, and offer support without trying to fix you or minimize your experiences. They understand that sometimes, you just need to be heard and acknowledged. They don’t dismiss your struggles with phrases like “just get over it” or “it could be worse.” Instead, they offer empathy and compassion.

3. They Respect Your Boundaries:

Healthy relationships are built on mutual respect, and that includes respecting your boundaries. People who are good for your mental health understand when you need space, when you can’t take on another commitment, or when you need to say “no.” They don’t pressure you, guilt-trip you, or make you feel bad for prioritizing your own well-being. They understand that setting boundaries is not about shutting them out, but about protecting your energy and mental space.

4. They Encourage Your Growth and Authenticity:

These are the people who see your potential and encourage you to pursue your goals and dreams. They believe in you, even when you doubt yourself. They don’t try to keep you small or make you feel insecure about your ambitions. They celebrate your growth and encourage you to be your most authentic self, flaws and all. They don’t demand you fit into a certain mold or criticize you for being different.

5. They Foster a Sense of Safety and Trust:

With these individuals, you feel safe to be vulnerable. You can share your thoughts and feelings without fear of judgment, criticism, or betrayal. There’s a deep sense of trust and security in the connection. You know they have your best interests at heart and wouldn’t intentionally hurt you. This feeling of safety is crucial for emotional well-being.

Now, let’s be real. This isn’t about cutting everyone “negative” out of your life overnight. Sometimes, those challenging relationships are with family members or long-time friends. In those cases, it’s about setting healthy boundaries, limiting exposure if necessary, and focusing your energy on the connections that truly nourish you.

This is an active process, not a passive one. It requires self-awareness to identify who truly lifts you up and who consistently brings you down. It requires courage to distance yourself from relationships that are detrimental to your well-being, even if it feels difficult. And it requires intention to cultivate and nurture the relationships that support your mental health.

Think about your own life right now. Who are the people you consistently feel good around? Who leaves you feeling inspired and supported? Invest in those relationships. Make time for them. Let them know how much you value them.

And conversely, who are the people who consistently leave you feeling drained, anxious, or insecure? It might be time to re-evaluate those connections and establish healthier boundaries.

Your mental health is precious. It’s the foundation upon which you build your life. Protect it fiercely. Choose your companions wisely. Surround yourself with people who are good for your mental health, and watch yourself blossom. You deserve a garden of supportive and uplifting relationships. Start cultivating it today.

Some Talk to You in Their Free Time and Some Free Their Time to Talk

June 22, 2018 By LLH Leave a Comment

“Some talk to you in their free time and some free their time to talk to you. Know the difference.”

This is about recognizing the value people place on you through their actions—specifically, how they choose to spend their time. Time is one of the most precious things we have, and how someone uses it can tell you a lot about where you stand in their life.

First, think about the people who “talk to you in their free time.” These are the ones who reach out when it’s convenient for them—when they’re bored, have a spare minute, or don’t have anything better going on. It’s not necessarily a bad thing, but it’s casual. You’re an option, not a priority. Maybe they text you while they’re waiting for their coffee or call you when their plans fall through. It’s low-effort, and it often feels that way. You might notice they’re not fully present—they’re distracted, or the conversation fizzles out when something else grabs their attention.

Now, contrast that with the people who “free their time to talk to you.” These are the ones who make a deliberate choice to carve out space for you. They’re not just squeezing you into a gap; they’re rearranging their day to connect with you. Maybe they skip a workout, push back a meeting, or turn down other invitations because they want to hear what’s on your mind. That’s effort. That’s intention. It shows you’re not just a backup plan—you’re someone who matters to them.

Why does this difference matter? Because it’s a clue to how much someone values you. We all get busy, sure, but people make time for what’s important to them. If you’re always on the back burner, waiting for someone to have a slow day, it can leave you feeling like an afterthought. On the flip side, when someone consistently goes out of their way to check in or listen, it builds trust and respect. You feel seen.

So, how do you “know the difference”? Pay attention. Look at patterns, not just one-off moments. Does this person only pop up when they need something or when they’re lonely? Or do they show up even when it’s inconvenient for them? Don’t overthink every interaction, but trust your gut. You’ll start to see who’s just filling dead air and who’s genuinely invested.

Here’s the takeaway: surround yourself with people who free their time for you—not all the time, because life’s not perfect—but enough that you know you’re a priority. And while you’re at it, ask yourself: Who am I making time for? Because this isn’t just about how others treat you—it’s about how you show up for the people you care about too. Relationships are a two-way street, and time is the currency we trade in. Spend it wisely.

You Must Love Yourself First, Then You Create a Ripple of Love

June 21, 2018 By LLH Leave a Comment

“You must love yourself first, then you create a ripple of love that will touch everyone’s lives. You have the power within you. Make a start and heal yourself first.” – Leon Brown

Our society often conditions us to prioritize others, to put their needs before our own. But I’m here to tell you that true, sustainable love for others blossoms from the fertile ground of self-love. It’s not selfish; it’s foundational.

Think of it like this: imagine you have a wellspring of water within you. If that well is dry or murky, what can you offer to others? You might try to pour from an empty vessel, leaving you feeling drained, resentful, and ultimately, unable to truly nourish those around you. But when your own well is full, clear, and constantly replenished with self-care, self-compassion, and self-acceptance, you have an abundance to share.

“You must love yourself first…” This isn’t about vanity or arrogance. It’s about recognizing your inherent worth, acknowledging your strengths and weaknesses with kindness, and treating yourself with the same respect and understanding you would offer a dear friend. It means honoring your needs – physical, emotional, and mental – and making choices that support your well-being. This could look like setting healthy boundaries, saying “no” when necessary, prioritizing rest, engaging in activities that bring you joy, and speaking to yourself with kindness instead of harsh criticism.

“…then you create a ripple of love that will touch everyone’s lives.” This is where the magic happens. When you are rooted in self-love, that positive energy naturally radiates outward. It’s not something you have to force or manufacture; it’s an overflow. Your interactions become infused with genuine warmth, empathy, and understanding. You’re less likely to project your insecurities onto others, and more likely to approach them with patience and compassion.

Think of a pebble dropped into a still pond. The initial impact creates a series of expanding circles, each one influencing the water around it. Your self-love is that initial pebble. As you cultivate it within yourself, it sends out waves of positivity that touch your family, your friends, your colleagues, even strangers you encounter in your day. Your capacity for genuine connection deepens, and you become a source of light and encouragement for those around you.

“You have the power within you.” This is a crucial reminder. You are not a victim of your circumstances or your past. The ability to cultivate self-love and initiate this ripple effect resides within you, right now. It might feel buried under layers of self-doubt or past hurts, but it’s there. This power isn’t some mystical force; it’s your inherent capacity for self-awareness, your ability to make conscious choices, and your resilience as a human being.

“Make a start and heal yourself first.” This is the call to action. The journey of self-love is not a destination but an ongoing process. It begins with a single step, a conscious decision to prioritize your own well-being. This might involve acknowledging past wounds, processing difficult emotions, challenging negative self-talk, or seeking support from therapists, counselors, or supportive communities. Healing isn’t about becoming perfect; it’s about becoming whole, accepting all parts of yourself, and moving forward with greater self-compassion.

So, if you’ve gotten this far, I urge you to take this message to heart. Invest in yourself. Nurture your inner wellspring. Embrace the power you hold within. By starting with self-love and embarking on your own healing journey, you not only transform your own life but also become a beacon of love and positivity for everyone around you. The ripple starts with you. Are you ready to make that first drop?