Happiness Happens Month

August is all about celebrating the little joys in life because it’s Happiness Happens Month! This month encourages us to slow down, notice the good around us, and embrace the moments that bring a smile. Happiness isn’t some big goal to chase; it’s found in the small, everyday things, a kind word, a laugh with a friend, or a quiet moment of peace. August reminds us to appreciate those simple joys and let happiness happen.

Key Takeaways:

• Happiness Happens Month is celebrated every August.
• The month encourages slowing down, noticing life’s small pleasures, and sharing happiness with others.
• The celebration was inspired by the Secret Society of Happy People, founded by Pamela Gail Johnson in 1998.
• Practicing gratitude or sharing happy moments can increase life satisfaction by up to 25%.
• Happiness isn’t one-size-fits-all; it can come from achievements, fun moments, or everyday joys.

What Is Happiness Happens Month?

Happiness Happens Month is all about reminding us to feel happy and share that joy with others. When you smile, laugh, or spread a little kindness, it’s contagious; your happiness can brighten someone else’s day, too.

This celebration reminds us that happiness looks different for everyone. It might come from a personal achievement, a fun moment, or simply enjoying the little things in life. The goal is to create an atmosphere where sharing joy is natural and encouraged. Because happiness isn’t meant to be kept to yourself, it’s meant to be shared. This month also helps us to understand how happiness happens.

Brief History

At its core, happiness is something we all want. It can come from love, work, hobbies, family, or even small everyday joys. A happy mind not only makes life brighter, but can also help us live longer and feel more fulfilled. That’s why Pamela Gail Johnson founded the Secret Society of Happy People (SOHP) in August 1998. She believed too many people felt shy about sharing their joy, as if it weren’t important. Her goal was to create a community where people could celebrate happiness in every form and share stories that lifted others up.

The group launched its first celebration on August 8, 1999, calling it Admit You’re Happy Day. But members quickly realized one day wasn’t enough. So, in 2000, the celebration expanded into a full month and was named Happiness Happens Month, and the day was renamed to "Happiness Happens Day."

With cheerful mottos like “Happiness Happens” and “Don’t Even Think of Raining on My Parade,” the movement spread worldwide, encouraging people to recognize both the big wins and the little things that bring joy. Today, Happiness Happens Month is a reminder to pause, smile, and embrace life’s bright side. Whether it’s through laughter with friends, a job well done, or simply enjoying your favorite meal, happiness deserves to be shared and celebrated.

Which Month Is Happiness Happens Month?

Happiness Happens Month may not be an official national celebration, but every August, it gives us a full 31 days to focus on joy and what truly makes life bright. It’s the perfect time to reflect on your own happiness and spread it to the people around you.

August is also prime summertime, and many are vacationing, soaking up the sun, or enjoying the last warm days before fall. Did you know that studies show people who actively practice gratitude or share happy moments report up to 25% higher life satisfaction? Happiness isn’t just a feeling; it’s something we can nurture every day.

Interesting Facts About Happiness Happens Month

• The original “Admit You’re Happy Day” on August 8th is still a significant part of the holiday, but now it's renamed to Happiness Happens Month.
• The mission for the Happiness Happens Month is to try to combat all the negativity out there in the news and on social media by focusing on the positive instead.
• It's a reminder that, when it comes to happiness, it all too often comes down to small, intentional acts.

How To Celebrate Happiness Month?

Happiness Happens Month is all about finding joy in everyday moments and sharing it with others.

Here are some fun, uplifting ways to celebrate and explore how happiness happens and understand what happiness means:

1. Start a Gratitude Journal

Take a few minutes each day to write down three things that made you smile. This small habit can help you focus on the positive and feel happy and thankful for the little joys in life.

2. Share Your Happiness

Share with a friend or family member something good that happened to you. Because happiness is meant to be shared, and by sharing your joy, you can celebrate it and encourage others to celebrate it as well, creating positive ripples throughout the world.

3. Make Time for Your Passions

Schedule a weekly block of time to do something you're passionate about. Whether it is reading, painting, hiking, or cooking, making these activities a priority is the key to a happier life.

4. Recognize Other Happy People

Don’t forget to look for and acknowledge other people who seem happy. A simple compliment like, “You look so happy today!” can brighten both their day and yours.

Happiness Happens Day Quotes

Let these Happiness Happens Day quotes serve as a reminder to be a little ray of sunshine for others. You can also explore happiness happens day quotes from modern thinkers to inspire positivity every day.

• “It is not in doing what you like, but in liking what you do that is the secret of happiness.” — J.M. Barrie.

• “Happiness is not something ready-made. It comes from your own actions.” — Dalai Lama XIV.

• “The art of being happy lies in the power of extracting happiness from common things.” — Henry Ward Beecher

• “Happiness is when what you think, what you say, and what you do are in harmony.” — Mahatma Gandhi. 

Conclusion

Happiness Happens Month isn't just a fun idea. It's a gentle reminder to focus on your joy and well-being. It encourages us to take small actions that can boost our own happiness and brighten the lives of those around us.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is National Happiness Day?

National Happiness Day is celebrated on August 8 and inspired the month-long Happiness Happens Month. It was created by the Secret Society of Happy People as “Admit You’re Happy Day", but later the name was changed. It encourages everyone to feel happy and share it with others.

2. Why do people say happy August?

August is also linked to happiness, with people wishing each other a “Happy August,” due to Happiness Happens Month being in August. It’s a concept that can be said in a way that is meant to wish a person luck and encourage them to take part in the month’s theme of finding and honoring happiness.

3. What is the International Day of Happiness?

The International Day of Happiness, celebrated each March 20, encourages people worldwide to reflect on what happiness means and to share joy, kindness, and positivity in everyday life.