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As I was scrolling through Instagram this week, I came across the above quote from The Happiness Project founder. And the beauty of its truth made me smile. Indeed, if those around us sincerely want to be happy, they will want us to be ourselves, engrossed in what makes us happy, because as we want them to feel such contentment, so do they of us. After all, seeing those we love happy is a wonderful gift.

But here's the key, our happiness is entirely dependent upon ourselves. Meaning, we must be the curators of happiness, rather than rely upon others to offer it to us. So no, those outside "life measurements" (attainment of a relationship, having children, even reaching a particular point in our career, or buying a house) once reached are not a guarantee that we will instantly become happy if we were not already previously. We must know how to be happy all on our own, so when these occasions are experienced or reached, we can appreciate them all the more.

When others no longer have to do something in particular to make us happy, our happiness will become infectious. In other words, when others realize that since we are already happy, they too will realize they must be clear about how to create happiness for themselves. Ultimately, this achievement is discovered through a personal journey to get to know oneself; a personal journey that will lead to security within oneself, as well as a respect for oneself as we become aware of what we can and cannot tolerate. 

And to speak to the first point of Gretchen Rubin's statement, when we do something in an attempt to help, ease or brighten someone's day, the gesture is the gift as the giver seeks nothing else than to bring joy into someone else's life. And so it is a balance, but the balance ultimately involves awareness on both sides: being aware of oneself (self-awareness) and being aware of what uniquely will help out the individuals you love in your life (emotional intelligence). Upon discovering each of these, the decisions in life become easier, the choices fewer and the outcomes become extraordinary. 

On this last day of March, South Korea has a nip in the air, but the spring blooms are beginning to brighten the days. While I may never visit again (but one never knows!), I feel fortunate to have had this opportunity. The congeniality of the people, the delicious food (check out my latest favorite in my IG), the respectful decorum and orderly way of life, all culturally beautiful and appreciated as I reflect on why my memory has remembered these aspects. The trip itself feels a bit surreal, which is all the more motivating to soak up every opportunity that is presented, and thus be fully present, appreciative and curious. 

All worthwhile lessons to take into our everyday lives. Sometimes we get lulled into the routine and forget to do just that: be present, appreciative, curious and explorative when opportunities present themselves. Perhaps if we approached our everyday lives as we approach these once-in-a-lifetime moments, our overall life's quality would increase beyond our expectation. Who knows? It is at least worth trying, non?

In this week's newsletter, you'll find my discussion on the recent trending word hygee in Monday's episode of the podcast as well as a casual Outfit of the Week that infuses a touch of France. This & That is full of inspiration: for the kitchen, for the home, for your wardrobe and your Francophile's predilections as well. I do hope you enjoy and thank you for subscribing. Have a lovely weekend, and until next week, I'll see you on the blog.
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P.S. TSLL Spring Shopping Guide for 2017 will be sent out tomorrow (Saturday April 1st). Be ready to peruse the latest trends to splurge and save on as well as shop directly from the guide. Also, the entire TSLL Shop: Capsule Wardrobe boutique has been updated with the most recent items to shop and restock the essentials for spring, fall and all-season.