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What does this quote mean to you?

Tonight's quote comes from Abraham Lincoln (1809-1865), 16th President of the United States. They called him "Honest Abe" for a reason, as Lincoln gave us some of the most relatable and profound quotes on record.

Here's yet another one with which most of us will probably concur:

"I have come to realize that people are about as happy as they make up their minds to be." - Abraham Lincoln

What I think Lincoln is trying to say is that happiness is largely a state of mind -- it's mostly mental.

Think about those days where one thing goes wrong -- say, you lose your job or break up with your boyfriend -- and it seemingly casts a shadow over your life for quite some time. While going through this, how often do we really stop and say, "Hey, cheer up. There are people out there who have it worse. I am happy this happened, as it gives me an opportunity to improve my life. I will find an even better partner or job." Not too often, right?

Some people are constantly in pursuit of bigger and better possessions while failing to appreciate what they already have. They could be happy with what they already own, but instead have convinced themselves that happiness only comes from having a more expensive car or house than that of the Joneses.

For many of us, happiness is largely influenced by others. Whether it's a date complimenting us on how we look or our boss commending us on a job well done, we look to others for validation, which in turn brings us happiness.

What many people fail to realize is that happiness only comes from within. While people might give you positive feedback, they're just as likely to criticize or otherwise put you down.

That's why we mustn't forget that we are our own biggest ally. The most effective pep talks are the ones we give ourselves. Happiness is by and large a state of mind. Even in the worst of times, looking on the bright side and reminding ourselves that there's always something or someone in our lives to be happy about goes a long way.

The mind can be one's biggest friend or foe. We should always strive to cancel out negative thoughts with happy, positive ones. It's not always easy to do, but it can be done -- so long as you're genuinely thankful for the good things in your life.

What does the above quote mean to you? Sound off on the blog or Google +.

To check out prior posts, click here: How to Understand People

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