I reviewed the recent poll we had on SelfGrowth.com asking "What is your biggest motivator?"

The top answer was happiness.

To me, happiness is not just a feeling. It's a decision.

If we leave it to be a feeling, then it comes and goes as it pleases. We never grab it and hold on to it.

But don't worry, there is a way to do this.

First, decide that you're going to be happy.

No matter what your circumstances are, be grateful because there are many people that are in worst situations than you.

And also be grateful that you have power over your life. It's up to you to make it worse or make it better.

Once you set your mind to being happy, how do you find out what makes you happy?

Well, ask yourself the question. What makes me happy?

Your mind will find the answer. It's happened when NASA asked how will we get to the moon or when Chesley Sullenberger asked himself how he will land the plane safely in the Hudson river.

If you don't ask yourself, how can you find the answer?

The key though is not to look for "things" that make you happy. You shouldn't say cars make me happy and when I get that car I'll be happy. It doesn't work that way.

You're not after the car. You're after the feeling of having that car. Once you get that car, it will make you feel good because maybe you'll feel powerful, important, or deserving.

So the real answer you're looking for is "What feelings equal happiness to me"?

These feelings are what you need in order to be happy.

So, the best part is that you don't have to wait to be happy. You can feel it right now!

Once you figure out your happiness, start acting like it.

Feeling important makes you happy?

Then in your eyes, how do important people act?

Act that way!

What if feeling powerful makes you happy?

Then act like a person with power. Believe you are powerful.

When you can do what makes you happy today, then you have found happiness. You didn't have to wait for your situation or bank account to get better.

You just had to realize the feelings that make you happy, and DECIDE to live those feelings today!

Author's Bio: 

Faizal Nisar empowers individuals to reach success through self improvement.