What makes you happy ? Are you happier giving the cupcakes or receiving the cupcakes … or both ? As I reflect on what makes me happy , I consider all the words that could be synonyms for happiness : joy , glee , delight , satisfaction , pleasure , contentment . These are words that can make us smile , words that convey a positive emotion . Positive emotions and the feelings of empowerment that occur by surrounding yourself with positive people can lead to shared experiences . Happiness from participating in acts of kindness , in helping others , allows us to experience individual gladness . As physicians , we practice medicine with kindness and believe we help our patients with each visit . The delight and pleasure I have experienced as a pediatrician helping parents and caregivers embrace the joys of childhood ( and the not so joyous moments ) have brought me so much happiness . This is happiness that I choose to share with others .

Happiness does not only occur when one is involved in an activity but can occur as one thinks of a past or future activity . The anticipation of a much-needed vacation can elicit a feeling of happiness , as I imagine I am strolling through Retiro Park in Madrid . These lovely happy feelings may not always have an obvious known cause . Have you ever smiled to yourself just because ? The day is lovely , and all is well . Happiness can ebb and flow over time and does not always remain constant . Happiness can vary from person to person and is uniquely individual . There are so many ways to experience happiness depending on your personal interests , time constraints , abilities and resources . And our dispositions may dictate how we experience happiness : a more positive outlook vs . a more challenging view of happiness . Not everyone experiences happiness baking cupcakes , either giving them away or eating them !

It is important to your health and well-being to find experiences that bring you happiness . Happiness can be associated with the release of dopamine , serotonin and endorphins that help to regulate our mood and overall well-being . Happiness and the practice of mindfulness makes it easier to “ live in the moment ” and if that moment is a happy moment , we can be more aware . Practicing mindfulness can lead to a greater enthusiasm for daily tasks . The opportunity to participate in “ self-care ” aids our ability to feel happy and healthy . And happiness and mindfulness are two “ states ” of self-care that are available to all of us .

I have a special voice ( thank you , best friend ) that speaks to me and asks “ Pat , does this bring you happiness . Do you find joy in this ?” The ability to experience happiness weighs on the decision-making process allowing me to move forward with a resounding “ yes .” Relating to the ability to provide happiness signifies that this might be something I should consider doing .

So , do you enjoy spending time with your family and friends ? Are you a physician who enjoys athletic endeavors ? Are books and learning a source of joy ? Does your work and treating patients provide you satisfaction ? And does finding happiness in your life provide you with joy , pleasure and contentment ? While cooking is an opportunity for me to find my happy place and experience mindfulness , I have many additional avenues to pursue happiness . What are your happiest moments ? How do you navigate self-care ? And how do you practice mindfulness ? I am sure that they are unique and provide you with personal empowerment . We all have our own unique happy place !

Dr . Purcell currently serves as the District IV Vice Chair for the American Academy of Pediatrics .

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