What's Your Six-Word Secret to Happiness?

Since I started my happiness project, I've found that when I distill an idea into a short, memorable phrase, I do a better job of remembering and following it. For that reason, I work hard to capture my ideas succinctly. Examples:

• The days are long, but the years are short.

Along these lines, I've teamed up with Smith Magazine, home of the fabulous "Six Word Memoir." Now you can share your six words on the secrets to happiness. How would you sum up what you've learned about happiness in six words (or less)? It's a fascinating, thought-provoking exercise. Some additions to the site include:

• Worrying does not change a thing.

Lytton Strachey observed, "Perhaps the best test of a man's intelligence is his capacity for making a summary." The discipline of using six words helps make ideas stand out more starkly. Also, this kind of exercise is a creative, fresh way to think about yourself, your nature, and what's important to you.

Check it out, and add your own secrets, here. I can't wait to read more.

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I'm working on my Happiness Project, and you could have one, too! Everyone's project will look different, but it's the rare person who can't benefit. Join in -- no need to catch up, just jump in right now. Each post will help you think about your own happiness project.

If you're looking for ways to track and keep your resolutions, check out my companion website, the Happiness Project Toolbox. Eight free tools to help you start and track your own happiness project.