Knowing what your favorite things are is an essential ingredient to happiness. If you don't know what makes you happy and prioritize those objects, events, people, and places, then you're unlikely to be as happy as you can be.
I thought about this today as I thought ahead about the holidays, schedules, routines, budgets, and more. What really matters to me, and what are my favorite things?
People
I really enjoy the company of others and want to prioritize time with the people I love and new people too especially people that share my interests in life as well as people that challenge me in positive ways and introduce me to new ideas, places, and pastimes.
Of course, I want to make time for family members and close friends--I need those people in my life and I enjoy those people in my life. That's a priority. Also by engaging in activities that mean a lot to me, I get to meet and spend time with all kinds of interesting people.
Activities
I enjoy many pastimes including bike riding, cooking, gardening, museum visits, shows, movies, travel, creative tasks, eating out, boating, the beach, mountains, and more. While you can't always do what you want, it's good to prioritize time for the activities you enjoy. I also enjoy the time I spend writing, reading, thinking, researching, and debating ideas and efforts.
Objects
As I've noted time and again, I want few objects, but there are some objects that make life better such as good cooking/gardening tools, creativity tools, just-right clothes/shoes, a decent car/bike, and a few needed travel supplies. That's about it.
Events
I enjoy parties and dinner with friends. I also enjoy adventures in nature with friends. A musical show now and then is enticing too. I like to participate in events and activities that help others too--I like to be helpful.
As I look ahead, I want to make time, energy, and money for my favorite things as I know that's one way to achieve happiness, and to be happy makes life better all around. Onward.
