What steps can you take to create inner happiness? I have struggled for much of the last year asking myself this question. I'll give you a little insight into why I asked this question and what I've found to be true. Furthermore, the research I obtained is due to the strong desire to find the answers to this question. Last year I lost three major people in my adult life. My grandmother died of cancer, my grandfather died of old age, and my great-grandmother died of a heart attack in her sleep. Although all these members of my family were older and as they grow older it is inevitable that they will die. I struggled with issues in my relationship with my boyfriend who wasn't around during these periods of time, as well as a job I was extremely dissatisfied with. In chronological order, my great-grandmother died in January 2013, my grandfather died in July 2013, and my grandmother died in November, the week before Thanksgiving 2013. Needless to say, there has been a lot of loss in the last twelve months. and each had its own significant emotional weight that remained thereafter. There are many points that contribute to making an individual happy, including genetics, relationships (love), a support system, and happiness in a career. While I feel like an optimistic person overall, this last year of loss has made me feel extremely depressed. And in accordance with that loss, I also had problems with my love relationship because my boyfriend worked out of town and was unable to physically provide me with the comfort I desired in those moments. I struggled with loneliness and it was truly an eye-opening realization of openness. At work, my boss used to put me down… middle of paper… we are all human! And finally, I do what I can every day to go out and be friendly. Smile every day! If things are depressing you internally, remember the things that bring you happiness, no matter how simple they are. Concentrate on these things, they will brighten a gloomy day. I have been through a lot of tough times, however, this past year has been huge! I have learned that maintaining happiness in one's life is actually quite simple and the pursuit of happiness lies in every moment. Remember to be grateful for everyday things like; sunlight, fresh air, and clean water are very easy places to start focusing this gratitude. A happier internal dialogue arises from a grateful attitude. Many of the steps to achieving inner happiness, especially after a significant loss, are free, the priority is to gain control over your life internally and externally.