When you are in what is known as the flow, time appears to stand still. Have you ever been in love and suddenly hours have flown by in an instant? This happens because you are completely engaged in an activity, focused on your purpose, and in some way or another, just plain happy. When you are not in the flow, hours drag by. It seems like the day will never end. You might be bored, stifled, angry, or confused. Here are 5 tips to create your happy state of flow:

1. Determine what your purpose in life is. Do you long to make a difference in the world? This can be on a small scale or on a very large scale. It depends on your own unique situation. Write your ideas down and expand on them. One idea can lead to another. Once you have defined your purpose, focus on it every day. Meditate on it, write about it, and take action on it. Make this a daily activity. Even 20 minutes per day, will help you find your happy flow.

2. What or who makes you passionate? Is there something or someone who lights your fire? What gives you goose bumps every time you think about it? You might find your happy flow in a new relationship or association. Obviously, this does not mean you should leave your husband. If your relationship has gone stale, focus on the positive aspects of what originally made you excited in the first place. Give that relationship a priority. If you are a harried mom, schedule a weekly date night and make sure you have childcare that is reliable. If your passion is not relationship based, join a group of like minded individuals who share your passion.

3. Focus on the positive and avoid negativity. Beware of dream crushers, negative influences and people who distract you from your purpose. Not everyone will understand what you are trying to achieve. Often, the people who are the closest to you will attempt to take you off purpose in an effort to keep you from being hurt. This does not mean you should not listen to those who have your best interests at heart but also listen to your own heart and intuition. When you truly tap into it, it will lead you in the right direction.

4. Learn to relax and enjoy the moment. Take time to savor life. This can be as simple as eating a delicious morsel or watching a beautiful sunset. Fully engage in what you are doing without hurry and stress. If your life is hectic, uncomplicated it so that you can enjoy more simple pleasures.

5. Above all focus on what makes you happy. You can have the most serious intentions, but if you are surrounded by negative influences that you cannot escape, find things that give you joy. If you are in a bad marriage, live with someone who is self destructive, or life has dealt you lemons, remember that you have the power to create your own happiness. It is always your choice. You have the power to create your own destiny.