Happiness is a word that is banded around an awful lot so when the lovely Donna from What The Redhead Said tagged me to share my happiness non-negotiables it was a great opportunity to think about what really made me happy:
Sleep
I’m not one of those people who boast about surviving on less than four hours sleep a night, I need my sleep; yes I can pull all nighters, yes I regularly wake up at 5am as I find I am most productive whilst most are still snoring but I cannot sustain a healthy life without sleep, even if I could I don’t want to – waking up rested makes me happy, almost as much as getting into bed with fresh sheets.
Light
I’m not talking about overhead vs. lamp – for me the simple joy of natural light is the best mood lifter. Working from home means I get to see my home from every single angle (wherever I can balance my mac on my lap – you can bet your bottom dollar I’ve sat and worked there) and light wins every time. Light is also what makes me smile on a cold winters’ morning when I remember how it dances across Boo’s face when she’s splashing in the sea.
Laughter
Ask anyone about me and one of the first things that they’ll probably say is that I laugh… a lot. If I’m not cracking a joke you’ll find me laughing my head off; it’s probably one of the most endearing and annoying things about me and I love it. Laughter isn’t just good for the soul, it’s good for the household – be it pinning Boo down for tickle time or watching her crack up as I do my best throwback performance of Spice Girls. Laughter brings our house alive, plus you can’t help but smile when you laugh!
Music
I’m pretty sure this one doesn’t need too much explaining; music is ever present in our life. Early mornings, late nights, shower time, car journeys, dance offs in the kitchen on a Saturday morning while I make my legendary breakfast pancakes. Whatever we’re up to there’s a song that can not only match our mood but sometimes even lift it.
Love
Love is all we need, blah blah – I’m not talking about the hearts and flowers type, it’s the feeling of love in your life; it’s a Mama and Boo thing. I can’t even begin to imagine how many kisses and hugs I’ve given Boo, it’s a real joy of being a mother, being able to show your love in such a fundamentally instinctive way.
Friends
Mum squad, girl gang, wing woman, call it what you want, friendship is integral to my happiness; from building me up and encouraging me to the ‘what were you thinking’ face that only a friend can give you. Surrounding myself with positive, strong women can only be a good thing.
Family
Family means so much to me in so many different ways; it’s where it all begins, we head out on our adventures that take us far away on such differing paths yet we return to family and motherhood has allowed me to realise just how important it is to belong. I’m fiercely proud to be part of #CorrietteClan.
And these are my happiness non-negotiables, would love to hear what yours are; I’m tagging Jenni, Lisa, Jess and Clare to share your non-negotiables when it comes to happiness.
