Today is World Smile Day. If you've been feeling that you have little to smile about lately, then now's the time to brush up on some feel-good gyaan. Expert advice on how to be happy

Not so serious

Today is World Smile Day. If you've been feeling that you have little to smile about lately, then now's the time to brush up on some feel-good gyaan. Expert advice on how to be happy

The smiley has come a long way since its birth inside the studio of American artist Harvey Ball, in 1963. The artistic representation of a smiling human face, most commonly represented as yellow, has even made its way to calendars in the form of World Smile Day. Celebrated on the first Friday of October, the idea behind World Smile Day was to devote one day in the year to smiles and acts of kindness that were not bound by religious, political or geographical boundaries, according to Harvey.

But eleven years since the first World Smile Day in 1999, and in a world where time is always at a premium, have we forgotten what it is to be happy? "I have people come to me admitting to their life being a total mess. They don't know how to be happy," says Veechi Shahi, wellness coach.

Sajidarjuna Peerbhoy, people enhancement coach and trainer, agrees that happiness has become more elusive in recent times. "There is a greater amount of stimulation, far too many distractions, an inability to connect, lack of time to pause and question why you're doing what you're doing," he says.

Happiness is now
While it might seem like the happiness odds are stacked against us, awareness is key, according to the experts. "It's important to assess your current situation. Ask yourself what your current reality is; what do you have, and what do you not have?" suggests Veechi.

Once you have assessed your current situation, Veechi suggests finding ways to "bridge the gap". "Find out how you can achieve your goals, accept your limitations, and start with baby steps."

Though, not all goals are tangible, agrees Veechi. And there will always be more to achieve, says Sajidarjuna. "Happiness involves self awareness, understanding and acceptance," he says, adding that a belief in a higher power also helps. "Faith fills one with a sense of peace, a feeling of being protected, and a lot of hope for the future."

Take it easy policy
Bangalore-based corporate trainer and entertainment professional Rubi Chakravarty, says, "You have to find the humour in every situation." It helps also to have a support group. "I vent to my girlfriends," shares Rubi, who says that her gal pals tide her through rough times. "Meeting friends, taking time out to travel, meditation, all help," says Veechi. "If you go through life thinking of it as something to endure, then you will have little to smile about," says Rubi.

The ability to laugh at oneself, and to be grateful are also important, says Sajidarjuna. "When you are at peace with yourself and the world, it will bring a smile to your face. Look around, there are people who are far worse
off than you."