The Happier You: Empowering Your Journey to a Joyf 5v1x5o

In today's episode I'm talking to empty nest coach Diana McIntosh about navigating the emotional and identity shifts that come with children leaving home. Diana shares her personal journey as a single mom, her “3C Framework” for rediscovering ion and purpose, and practical tools—like her “Magic Morning Reset”—to help women move from surviving to thriving. Key Takeaways: The emotional complexity of sending kids off to university How to avoid placing your sadness on your children The power of curiosity in rediscovering yourself Diana’s 3C Framework: Curiosity, Courage, and Confidence The importance of small wins and self-celebration Creating a ive and nurturing morning routine Links & Resources: 📸 Follow Diana on Instagram: @dianamcintoshcoach 👥 Face Book: Diana McIntosh on Face Book 📝 Free : The Magic Morning Reset (linked on Diana’s site) Connect with Bona: 🌟 The Happier You Website   🎧 Don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and share if this episode spoke to you!

In this inspiring episode, I sit down with Chris Ayotte, former Army officer and host of The Northern Sentinels podcast, to explore what it means to live a life shaped by intentionality, priorities, and personal fulfillment. After years of military service and multiple deployments, Chris made a life-changing decision: to step away from the Army and spend his daughter’s final two years of high school fully present at home. What followed was a transformative six-month journey of reflection, recalibration, and the creation of a new mission—this time, in civilian life. We talk about: 🌱 The emotional and practical reasons behind Chris’s decision to leave the military 🧭 How he gave himself space to not rush into what's next—and what that taught him 🎧 The birth of The Northern Sentinels podcast during his transition 💡 The quiet, personal work of figuring out what really matters—and building around that  🙌 The power of aligning career moves with what brings genuine happiness and presence Whether you're navigating a major life shift or seeking clarity about your next step, Chris's story offers a powerful reminder:  You can pursue what’s next without leaving yourself behind.  🔗 Resources & Links Listen to The Northern Sentinel podcast The Greater Good Substack - with Chris' podcast and writings

In this inspiring episode, I sit down with Chris Ayotte, former Army officer and host of The Northern Sentinels podcast, to explore what it means to live a life shaped by intentionality, priorities, and personal fulfillment. After years of military service and multiple deployments, Chris made a life-changing decision: to step away from the Army and spend his daughter’s final two years of high school fully present at home. What followed was a transformative six-month journey of reflection, recalibration, and the creation of a new mission—this time, in civilian life. We talk about: 🌱 The emotional and practical reasons behind Chris’s decision to leave the military 🧭 How he gave himself space to not rush into what's next—and what that taught him 🎧 The birth of The Northern Sentinels podcast during his transition 💡 The quiet, personal work of figuring out what really matters—and building around that  🙌 The power of aligning career moves with what brings genuine happiness and presence Whether you're navigating a major life shift or seeking clarity about your next step, Chris's story offers a powerful reminder:  You can pursue what’s next without leaving yourself behind.  🔗 Resources & Links Listen to The Northern Sentinel podcast The Greater Good Substack - with Chris' podcast and writings

The Power of Creative Expression: Healing & Transformation with Sam Horton Have you ever felt stuck in your emotions or struggled to find a way to express yourself? In this episode of The Happier You, we explore the transformative power of creative expression with special guest Sam Horton. Sam shares her journey of using creativity as a tool for healing and personal growth, showing us how tapping into our artistic side—whether through writing, painting, music, or movement—can be a powerful way to process emotions and cultivate happiness. We discuss: ✨ How creative expression helps us navigate life's challenges ✨ The connection between art and emotional well-being ✨ Practical ways to embrace creativity, even if you don’t consider yourself “artistic” ✨ Sam’s personal experiences with creativity as a form of self-discovery If you’ve ever wanted to bring more joy, self-awareness, and healing into your life, this episode is for you! 🎧 Listen now and get inspired to unlock your creativity! 🔗 Links & Resources: https://samhorton.co https://instagram.com/samhortonstudio https://thehappieryou.net/ 💛 Let’s keep the conversation going! Share your thoughts with me  at https://www.facebook.com/groups/thehappieryou

Does February ever feel like the longest, toughest month? You’re not alone! From the post-holiday slump to the pressure of Valentine’s Day, February can be a hard month to get through. But what if you could change that? In this episode, Bona discusses how small mindset shifts and intentional actions can transform February from a dark, dreary month into one filled with light and joy. Discover practical tips for navigating the February blues and how you can take control of your happiness, even when the world seems to be against it. What you’ll learn in this episode: The February Blues: Why this month can be tough, and how to fight back with positivity and gratitude. Valentine's Day Pressure: How to shift the narrative from what’s missing to what’s already abundant in your life, regardless of your relationship status. Gratitude for Small Things: Learn how focusing on what you have, rather than what you don’t, can transform your perspective and lift your spirits. Action Creates Transformation: It’s not just about listening to positive messages—it’s about taking action to create real change in your life. Real-life Story: Hear how one listener, Nancy, changed her mindset and found joy during a challenging holiday season, proving that happiness begins with small shifts. Featured Resources: The 30-Day Happiness Boost:  Bona for a 30-day journey of small, intentional actions to boost your happiness. You’ll be guided step-by-step to create lasting joy in your life. Key Quote: "Happiness is not something ready-made. It comes from your own actions." — Dalai Lama the Challenge! If you’re tired of holding on to negativity and want to take action to change your February, Bona for the 30-Day Happiness Boost. It’s time to create joy on your own .

 In this episode of The Happier You podcast, I sit down with transition coach Jodi Webster to discuss navigating life’s major changes. Whether a transition is planned or unexpected, it can be difficult to handle. Jodi shares her personal journey into transition coaching, reflecting on her own career shifts and the challenges she faced without guidance.  This episode dives into Jodi’s top tools and advice for navigating transitions, from practical strategies like maintaining an up-to-date resume and building an emergency fund, to emotional tools like celebrating small wins and overcoming self-doubt. Jodi also explains why it’s crucial to plan ahead, invest in your skills, and approach job searching with resilience. For anyone facing a career transition—or just wanting to be better prepared—this episode is packed with actionable tips and insights to help you thrive, no matter what life throws your way. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: The difference between voluntary and involuntary transitions—and why preparation is key. Jodi’s 10 practical tools for navigating career changes,  The importance of addressing the emotional challenges of transitions, like self-doubt and stress, and how to celebrate small wins. Why it’s essential to ask the tough questions during interviews, from salary to start dates. Tips for maintaining momentum in your job search, even when faced with setbacks. Notable Quotes from Jodi Webster: “You want to keep as much money in your bank as possible because everything takes longer than you think it will.” “Invest in your own skills—even if it’s free or online courses. It keeps you exposed to new ideas and concepts.” “Don’t get emotionally attached to a job lead. It’s a numbers game—apply, apply, apply.” “Celebrate small wins. Overcoming the fear of job searching and getting those first applications out the door is a victory in itself.” Resources and Links Mentioned: Connect with Jodi Webster for transition coaching [email protected] Tools for upskilling: LinkedIn Learning, free online courses, and certifications. Episodes on happiness tools for small wins: https://thehappieryou.net/take-charge-of-your-happiness-why-small-wins-really-matter/ the Conversation: What’s the biggest challenge you’ve faced during a career transition? Share your experience and connect with us in The Happier You community. Subscribe & Review: If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe and leave a review! It helps others discover the podcast and the journey toward happiness.

Do you want to make 2025 the year you truly love? In this episode, I simplify the process of goal-setting and annual planning with a fun and practical approach designed to work for you. Whether 2024 left you feeling accomplished or drained, this framework will help you celebrate your wins, set meaningful goals, and create a life you’re excited to wake up to every day. If you’ve ever struggled with staying motivated or sticking to resolutions, this episode is packed with tips to make 2025 planning easy, inspiring, and totally doable. What You'll Learn in This Episode: Why celebrating your wins is the most overlooked (but essential!) part of planning. A 4-step system to simplify your annual planning and make it enjoyable. How to align your goals with your values so they’re meaningful and achievable. The importance of anticipation and how to highlight moments of joy throughout the year. Tips to keep your momentum going, even when life gets busy. The 4-Step Framework for 2025 Planning Made Easy: Celebrate Your Wins: Reflect on the highlights of 2024 with the Annual Highlight Reel to set a positive tone. Plan Ahead: Identify key milestones, events, and challenges coming up in 2025 to create a realistic roap. Set Meaningful Goals: Define what success looks like by December 31st, 2025, and make your goals deeply personal. Build Anticipation: Highlight both big and small joys to keep you inspired throughout the year. Free Resource for Your Best Year Yet: Want to start planning your 2025? my free Annual Highlight Reel tracker here. It’s the perfect tool to celebrate your wins and set yourself up for success! Quote of the Episode: "Tell me, what is it you plan to do with your one wild and precious life?" – Mary Oliver Let’s Stay Connected: Visit my website: thehappieryou.net my community: The Happier You Face Book Group Let’s make 2025 your happiest year yet!

In this heartfelt episode of The Happier You podcast, I sit down with Patricia Van Der Laan, my happiness mentor of over four years. Patricia has been a guiding light in my own happiness journey, and this year, she has faced incredible challenges with resilience, grit, and grace that continue to inspire me. Together, we discuss the real, messy truth about happiness—how it’s not always easy, and why it’s okay to acknowledge the struggles along the way. Patricia shares her insights into navigating life’s curveballs while holding onto joy and purpose. She reminds us that resilience isn’t about avoiding difficulty; it’s about showing up for ourselves and finding the strength to keep moving forward. Patricia's Wisdom: "I choose Joy.  Every single day, I choose joy." Mentioned in this episode: The mindset shift that keeps Patricia moving forward through tough times. How to embrace happiness as a lifelong practice, not a destination. Tips for building resilience during life’s biggest challenges. This is a must-listen for anyone who needs a reminder that happiness isn’t just for when life is easy, its a choice you make even when life gets hard. Tune in to learn: Why struggles and joy are interconnected in the journey to resilience. Simple ways to cultivate happiness even in the face of life’s challenges. How mentorship and connection can make a profound impact on your happiness journey. Listen now and discover how you can find joy and resilience, even when happiness feels hard.

December at The Happier You community is all about gratitude! It’s one of the first happiness tools I implemented, and it’s simple, free, and life-changing. In this episode, I’m sharing a heartfelt story from Benjamin Hardy’s book The Gap and The Gain that hit me right where I live. It’s about focusing on what’s missing instead of appreciating what’s already there—and how gratitude can shift that perspective. I also introduce you to a powerful tool called mental subtraction—a research-backed technique to deepen your gratitude and boost your happiness. Plus, I open up about my own struggles with staying in “The Gain” and how I’m learning to embrace gratitude even when life doesn’t go as planned. If you’re ready to feel more joyful, even during life’s challenges, this episode is for you. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: The difference between living in “The Gap” vs. “The Gain” How gratitude strengthens your “happiness muscle” A simple mental subtraction exercise to boost gratitude and happiness Why practicing gratitude doesn’t mean settling for less or accepting unfairness How to appreciate the good in your life—even the smallest blessings Today's Quote: "I don't have to chase extraordinary moments to find happiness—it’s right in front of me if I’m paying attention and practicing gratitude." — Brené Brown Resources Mentioned: The Gap and The Gain by Benjamin Hardy and Dan Sullivan The Mental Subtraction Exercise (science-backed gratitude technique) Your Challenge for the Week: Take the mental subtraction challenge: Think of one thing in your life that you take for granted and imagine life without it. Notice how this shifts your perspective and helps you appreciate the blessings you already have. the Conversation: How do you practice gratitude in your life? Have you ever noticed yourself getting stuck in “The Gap”? Share your thoughts and takeaways with me over on Facebook. Subscribe & Review: If you’re enjoying The Happier You podcast, please subscribe and leave a review! Your helps us reach more people and spread happiness even further. Stay Connected: the Happier You Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/thehappieryou Sign up for my free December Gratitude Challenge: https://thehappieryounet.kit.com/gratitude30

Episode Description: The holiday season can be both magical and overwhelming. As we navigate the busy festivities, it’s easy to forget to pause and appreciate the blessings we already have. In this weeks episode I am inviting you into our December Gratitude Challenge, a simple and powerful way to bring more holiday happiness into your life. I discuss how practicing gratitude, especially during challenging times, can help shift your focus from what you don't have to appreciating what’s already right in front of you. Whether it's a small moment or a big win, gratitude opens the door to greater joy, connection, and peace—exactly what we need during the holidays. In This Episode, You'll Learn: The transformative power of gratitude and how it can unlock holiday happiness. How focusing on gratitude can help shift your mindset during stressful or overwhelming times. Practical ways to incorporate gratitude into your daily life this December. Why the holidays are the perfect time to practice gratitude and embrace the beauty in your life. the challenge and start practicing gratitude today, because what you focus on expands—let’s expand the blessings in our lives this holiday season! Episode Quote: "Gratitude is the ability to experience life as a gift. It liberates us from the prison of self-preoccupation." – John Ortberg Resources Mentioned: December Gratitude Challenge Connect with Bona and The Happier You community on The Happier You Facebook Group  the Daily Gratitude Email Series  Connect with Bona: Website: The Happier You  Facebook: The Happier You Facebook Group

As the holiday season approaches, we're surrounded by ads telling us that happiness can be wrapped, boxed, and gifted. But is the best gift you can give yourself something you can buy? In today’s episode, we’re exploring what it really means to give ourselves a gift that brings true joy and fulfillment—no price tag required. Using Gary Chapman's concept of the Five Love Languages as our framework, we’re diving into how each love language can guide us toward discovering the most meaningful gift we can give ourselves. Whether it’s words of affirmation, quality time, acts of service, physical touch, or receiving gifts, there’s a unique way for each of us to nurture and celebrate ourselves. In This Episode, You’ll Learn: Why the best gifts might not be found in stores or under a tree How to identify your primary love language and apply it to self-care Practical ways to show yourself love that align with each love language Why self-reflection and a bit of journaling can help you get to know yourself better this season Episode Highlights: Rethinking Gifts: How marketing shapes our beliefs about happiness and material gifts, and why the most precious gifts can’t always be purchased. The Five Love Languages: We break down each love language—Words of Affirmation, Quality Time, Acts of Service, Physical Touch, and Receiving Gifts—and share practical ways to express each one as a gift to yourself. Your Unique Gift: By reflecting on what brings you joy, you can find a truly meaningful way to celebrate and care for yourself. A Little Challenge for You: Grab a journal, and after listening, take some time to reflect on the love languages. Ask yourself: Which of these resonate most with me? How can I use this insight to create a holiday gift for myself that’s fulfilling and personal? Quote of the Episode: "The best things in life are not things." — Art Buchwald Get In Touch: We’d love to hear what you think! If you find this episode helpful, share it with someone who might need a little inspiration this season, and tag us on social media with your favorite insights. : This holiday season, think outside the box and give yourself the gift of what truly matters.

Episode Summary: The holidays are just around the corner—are you ready? Whether you’re the type to have your Christmas shopping done in September or you prefer to wing it, this episode is for you! Today, we’re diving into how planning ahead can transform your holiday season from chaotic to calm. With practical tips and personal stories, you’ll learn how to set boundaries, create new traditions, and design a holiday season that brings more joy and less stress. Inspired by Brené Brown’s approach to family vacations and my own happiness journey, I’ll show you how asking the right questions—of yourself and others—can lead to more meaningful holidays. This episode will help you reflect on last year, prioritize what matters, and prepare for the holiday season with intention and balance. Let’s make this year’s holiday season your best one yet! In This Episode, You’ll Learn: How planning ahead can help you avoid holiday overwhelm The importance of self-awareness in creating a holiday that works for you Why asking your loved ones what they really want can lead to less stress and more joy How to set healthy boundaries before the holidays start, so you can enjoy the season on your Simple, actionable steps to reflect on last year’s holiday and plan for a better one this year Resources Mentioned: My recent conversation with Diane Sorensen on setting healthy boundaries: EP#117 The Brené Brown book I referenced about family Venn diagrams: The Gifts of Imperfection Quotes from the Episode: “Planning is bringing the future into the present so that you can do something about it now.” — Alan Lakein “What if this year, you’re the one brave enough to try something different? You might just find more joy and peace in a simpler, more meaningful holiday.” - Bona Normandeau the Conversation: I’d love to hear how you’re planning for the holidays this year! Share your thoughts with me on social media or in the comments below. What traditions are you keeping, and what new things are you trying? Follow & Subscribe: If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe to The Happier You podcast so you never miss an episode. And if you found this helpful, please leave a review—it helps others find the podcast and grow our happier community!

In today’s episode, I’m diving into how we can turn setbacks into stepping stones. Instead of seeing failure as something that happens to us, what if we could see it as something happening for us—a way to help us learn and grow? I share a personal story about some of the setbacks I faced early on in my military career and the lessons I learned that still help me today. I’ll walk you through a five-step process to help you reframe your own setbacks, moving from feeling defeated to feeling empowered. Whether you're facing a current challenge or reflecting on past ones, this episode is packed with actionable steps to help you gain momentum, rethink the stories you tell yourself, and ensure you have the right system to keep moving forward. In this episode, I cover: Shifting from “Why is this happening to me?” to “How is this happening for me?” My journey through setbacks in the military and what those experiences taught me A five-step system for transforming failures into opportunities for growth Why celebrating small wins is essential to building resilience How to assess your system to make sure it’s working for you right now Listener Challenge: This week, try applying my five-step system to a current or past setback. Notice how it shifts your perspective, and ask yourself where you could have ed yourself differently, sought help sooner, or taken a new approach. Quote of the Episode: “Our greatest glory is not in never failing, but in rising every time we fail.” – Confucius

Hey, happy people! In today's episode, I’m thrilled to welcome back Diane Sorensen. You might Diane from her previous appearance on the podcast, where we dived into the Rescue and Empowerment Triangles. This time, Diane and I explore the powerful and sometimes misunderstood topic of boundaries. Have you ever found yourself saying yes when you really wanted to say no? I know I have! It’s something I’m working on myself, and in this episode, Diane helps us demystify boundaries so we can better understand their importance in maintaining healthier, more authentic relationships. Diane shares her personal journey of going from having no boundaries to discovering how they have the power to set us free and strengthen our connections with others. Whether it’s a relationship with a child, a partner, or a parent, we all play a role in how those relationships develop. And, as Diane so beautifully puts it, it all begins with setting boundaries that respect both ourselves and others. Here’s what you’ll hear in this episode: What boundaries truly are and why they matter for personal happiness Why setting boundaries is an essential step in any personal growth journey Practical tips on how to start saying no in a healthy, guilt-free way How boundaries create more honest and genuine relationships Why most of us have been conditioned not to set boundaries and how we can unlearn those habits Diane also shares how boundaries are not just about saying no to others, but about saying yes to ourselves and our happiness. It’s a powerful conversation that I’m so excited to share with you. I hope it helps you, as it’s helped me, on this journey to living a more authentic and happy life. Check out this free resource Diane has generously provided to help you take the first step toward setting healthy boundaries. Click here to access Diane’s Boundary Resource and start transforming your relationships today!  If you loved this episode, please share it with someone who could benefit from learning more about boundaries. Let’s spread the happiness and help each other live our best lives!

Episode Title: What You Offer to Others, You Give to Yourself: Happiness Tools for Real Life Welcome back to season five of The Happier You podcast! In this episode, Bona shares a powerful interview with Teri Murray, who participated in one of the early 21 Day Happiness Challenges. Together, they explore key happiness tools, including “What You Offer to Others, You Give to Yourself” and the importance of self-comion. Teri opens up about how she used these tools in her life, including helping her son navigate anxiety during the pandemic. Her journey reminds us that when we offer acceptance, kindness, and understanding to others, we are also working on giving those things to ourselves. Bona also reflects on the struggle we all face when learning new skills like self-comion, sharing that it’s not always easy but is crucial for long-term happiness. Key Takeaways: What You Offer to Others, You Give to Yourself: When we offer understanding and acceptance to others, we learn to offer it to ourselves. Self-Comion: Struggling is a normal part of life; self-comion helps us move through difficult moments with more grace. Personal Growth: Progress in happiness is an ongoing journey, not a destination. Challenge for the Week: Take time to consider how you treat those around you. Are you offering kindness, patience, and understanding? As you do, that this kindness extends back to you. Offer yourself the same comion when you're facing challenges. Quote of the Week: “You yourself, as much as anybody in the entire universe, deserve your love and affection.” – Buddha Links and Resources: my next Kickstart Your Happy course to get personalized happiness tools you can implement step-by-step in your life. Subscribe to The Happier You newsletter for more tips and tools to keep happiness top of mind! Thanks for tuning in, and as always, when you have a choice, choose happy!

Episode Summary: In the final installment of the summer rerun series, I am encouraging you to focus on your strengths and stop being your own worst critic. This episode is all about recognizing the amazing things you're good at and embracing them instead of fixating on your weaknesses.  Key Takeaways: Focus on Strengths: Stop dwelling on your shortcomings and start acknowledging what you do well. Celebrate your talents, whether it's being a good friend, a ive partner, or a dedicated employee. Know Yourself: Understanding your strengths begins with knowing yourself. Bona suggests taking personality quizzes as a fun and insightful way to identify your natural abilities. Stop Comparing: Avoid comparing yourself to others, especially on social media. Embrace who you are and what you have to offer. Resources Mentioned: 16personalities.com: A free personality quiz that can help you identify your strengths and weaknesses. Quote of the Week: "I do not want to get to the end of my life and find that I just lived the length of it. I want to have lived the width of it as well." - Diane Ackerman Final Thoughts: , when you have a choice, choose happy. Take this week's challenge to heart and celebrate the incredible person you are. Have a good one, and go get your happy on! Be sure to subscribe, rate, and review The Happier You Podcast. For more happiness tips and challenges, visit our website at TheHappierYou.net

In today's special rerun episode, we delve into the transformative power of play. Following up on our exploration of creativity in the first part of this two-part series, we now turn our focus to how play can rejuvenate our lives, reduce stress, and spark joy. If you've been feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or simply in need of a little fun, this episode is for you! Why Play Matters Discover why play isn't just for kids—it's essential for adults too! Play has profound benefits for our mental well-being and personal growth. Drawing on insights from play researcher Stuart Brown, we explore how play helps us unwind, reconnect with our creative selves, and find balance in our hectic lives. Whether it's structured activities like building Lego sets or spontaneous fun like flying a kite, there's a type of play for everyone. Play vs. Creativity In this episode, we discuss the nuanced differences between play and creativity. While creativity often involves crafting something new, play can simply be an activity where you lose track of time and enjoy the moment. Hear a fun conversation with my friend Jodi as we debate the "two camps" of Lego enthusiasts: those who follow set instructions and those who build from imagination. This light-hearted discussion illustrates how play can manifest in various forms, each bringing its own joy. The Benefits of Play Explore the multitude of benefits that play brings into our lives. From reducing stress and enhancing our brain's executive functions to fostering better problem-solving skills, play is a powerful tool for improving overall well-being. Stuart Brown's quote, "The opposite of play is not work; it's depression," underscores the importance of incorporating play into our daily routines. Practical Tips for Incorporating Play Get practical advice on how to add more play into your life, even amidst a busy schedule. Whether it's through reading, puzzles, or outdoor activities, find simple ways to reintroduce play into your routine. I share personal stories and tips on balancing structured play with more spontaneous fun, encouraging you to explore different activities that bring you joy. Resources Mentioned Brené Brown – The Gifts Of Imperfection​ ​Stuart Brown – on the importance of play. Tips for integrating play into daily life from various experts. Challenge of the Week This week, I challenge you to identify activities that feel like play to you. Reflect on past experiences where you lost track of time and felt completely absorbed in the moment. Try to incorporate at least one playful activity into your week and notice the difference it makes in your mood and energy levels. Our Community Subscribe to My Happy Notes Newsletter for weekly inspiration and to get the latest episodes delivered straight to your inbox. Visit The Happier You website and become part of our community dedicated to living a happier, more fulfilling life. Quote of the Episode: "We are never more fully alive, more completely ourselves, or more deeply engrossed in anything than when we are playing." — Charles Schaeffer Tune in, rediscover the joy of play, and , when you have a choice, choose happy!

Host: Bona Normandeau Episode Title: " Rediscovering Joy: Why Creativity and Play Matter (Part 1)" Podcast Website: The Happier You Episode Summary: Welcome to the Happier You Podcast! In this week's episode, I delve into the transformative power of creativity and play. This is the first part of a two-part series exploring how these elements can rejuvenate our lives. Do you feel uninspired or stuck? Are you feeling claustrophobic in your life or burdened by your current situation? If there's a lack of fun in your life, this episode is for you! In my research, I discovered that creativity and play are essential, not just frivolous pursuits. Drawing on insights from experts like Stuart Brown and Brené Brown, I look at why we need to embrace these elements more fully. Creativity and play can overlap, but they're not the same for everyone, and that's what makes this exploration so fascinating. In this episode, we focus on creativity, starting with the concept of cultivating creativity and letting go of comparison. After reading "The Gifts Of Imperfection" by Brené Brown, I realized I have art scars from childhood.  In this episode I share the joy of rediscovering creative expression and I share how creativity isn't about being inherently talented but about enjoying the process and exploring new ways to express yourself. I also touch on the benefits of making art a habit, from reducing stress and anxiety to enhancing problem-solving skills. Whether it's through finger painting, cooking, knitting, or scrapbooking, I am encouraging you to find your own creative outlets and incorporate them into your daily life. Key Takeaways: Creativity & Play: Essential for well-being, not just for the "talented." Overcoming Art Scars: Letting go of comparison and embracing the creative process. Mental & Emotional Benefits: Creativity reduces stress, anxiety, and enhances problem-solving abilities. Practical Tips: Try new creative activities, from cooking to painting, and don't worry about the outcome—focus on the process. Resources Mentioned: Books & Authors: Brené Brown - The Gifts Of Imperfection Stuart Brown - on the importance of play. Podcasts:NPR's Life Kit - Making art is good for your health. Here's how to start a habit (practical advice on adding creativity and play to your life). Challenge of the Week: This week, explore different creative processes or activities that you can incorporate into your life. Don't worry about being perfect—focus on what brings you joy! Subscribe & Connect: For more inspiration, sign up for My Happy Notes, my weekly newsletter to keep your happiness top-of mind and get the podcast delivered straight to your inbox! Quote of the Episode: "You can't use up creativity. The more you use, the more you have." — Maya Angelou

Episode Title: Don’t Wait for a Crisis: Life Lessons from a Plane Crash Survivor Original Air Date: August 9, 2020 (Don't Postpone Your Life) Hosts: Bona Normandeau & Dany Normandeau Episode Summary: In this thought-provoking episode, we revisit our conversation inspired by Ric Elias' impactful 2011 TED talk, "3 Things I Learned While My Plane Crashed." Ric Elias was one of the engers aboard the flight that made a miraculous crash-landing in the Hudson River in 2009. His reflections on this life-altering experience offer thoughtful insights into living fully and intentionally. us as we delve into the lessons we took away from Ric's talk and discuss how they reshaped our perspectives on life. We explore the importance of not waiting for a crisis to prioritize what truly matters, the significance of eliminating negative energy, and the value of appreciating the present moment. In our conversation, recorded originally on August 9, 2020, we share personal stories and insights on how Ric's message inspired us to make immediate changes in our lives. We reflect on the idea that you don't need a dramatic event to start living with intention and joy. Key Takeaways: Ric Elias' three life-changing lessons from the Hudson River plane crash The importance of living with intention and not postponing your dreams How to identify and eliminate negative energy from your life Practical steps to start living fully now, without waiting for a crisis Links and Resources: Ric Elias' TED Talk: 3 Things I Learned While My Plane Crashed The Happier You Website The Happier You Facebook Group We hope this episode inspires you to take action and live a more intentional and fulfilling life. Don't wait for a crisis – start making meaningful changes today!

 In this episode, I’m reminiscing about summer reading programs from my childhood. Whether you're traveling, relaxing by the lake, or diving into a good book, summer can be a time for fun and personal growth. me as I share  some fantastic book recommendations to inspire your summer reading list. Book Recommendations: Take the Stairs by Rory Vaden: The Happiness Equation by Neil Pasricha: Happiness for Beginners by Katherine Center: Atlas of the Heart by Brené Brown: Resources: Neil Pasricha's blog: 1000 Awesome Things  If you want even more reading ideas, you can check out my Summer Reading List from 2021 What's next: Share your summer reading lists and experiences with me! Start your own summer reading challenge and reward yourself. Come on over to The Happier You Facebook Group and the conversation about your favourite books and summer reads. Make time for the things you love this summer and capture those moments in your gratitude journal. Enjoy your reading adventures and choose happiness every day. Have a wonderful summer and go get your happy on!