We all know the Declaration of Independence gives us the right to life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness. But what does that mean to you? Do you take it seriously?
Most of us spend at least a third of our day working. Few of us have a say in how we spend that time – which isn’t necessarily a bad thing. Work is something that makes us better people. Show me a lazy person and I don’t have much time for that. Work is what pays the bills, what feeds us and puts a roof over our heads. It makes life possible.
But back to the pursuit of happiness … Is that what you’re doing? I’m going to guess lots of us are not pursing happiness in every aspect of our life. So for the love of life and liberty, check out the rights that follow.
You have the right to:
Be happy at work.
Work in a place that makes you feel good.
Be noticed.
Be appreciated.
Be compensated.
Do work in line with your values and beliefs.
Change your mind about a career choice.
Change the lives of others.
Change, period.
Make money doing it.
Make it your living.
Do what you are, instead of the other way around.
Get tired trying.
Get back up again.
Get started on the next big idea.
Get started on a small idea that makes you insanely happy.
Fully pursue happiness.
Photo by Andrew Senay
{ 6 comments… read them below or add one }
Amen, sister!
You know what people keep telling me when I tell them my news? “Good things happen to good people.” There’s a lot of good people out there, and sometimes you just have to reach out and find your good things and MAKE them happen to you!
Melissa, I agree with you that we deserve to be happy and live a fulfilled life. I try to find things each day that will make me happy no matter what!
I like how your list is full of action, Melissa! To me, there’s a crucial difference between the right to happiness and the right to pursue happiness. We’re not guaranteed happiness or success – but we absolutely have the right to chase them down!
@ Tracy – Exactly. You’re going to rock this change. xoxo
@ Angela – I love your attitude! What are some examples of things that make you happy no matter what? Thanks for stopping by.
@ Jeffrey – That’s it! I want to see more people empowered to do that. Thanks for your (incredible, as always) insight.