when faced with a feeling of stagnation and confusion, it may be helpful to take an hour, an afternoon, or even several days to simply reflect on what it is that will truly bring us happiness, and then reset our priorities on the basis of that

If life is so short, why do we do so many things we don’t like and like so many things we don’t do?

      because life isn't just about what we like. It's more than that. The grand agenda involves more than just my whims and will.

What lifts your spirits when life gets you down?

      new growth on plants

Have you ever regretted something you did not say or do?

      of course! I wish I'd negotiated certain financial transactions more assertively. I regret not letting my former boss have it the day he eliminated my job. I should have been more clear about my feelings once or twice.

Has your greatest fear ever come true?

      yes

Why do we think of others the most when they’re gone?

      I don't think that's necessarily true. It is possible to "be in the moment," to recognize one's blessings and to actively care about someone else.

What is your most beloved childhood memory? 

     playing with my cousins at Christmastime, a dozen of us around the same age running like terrors in the too-small basement, lugging out all the toys that had been there since our parents were kids, both kitchens steamy from all the cooking and baking, excitement building for the meal and opening presents later.

Is it more important to love or be loved? 

     being loved makes everything possible

If you had the chance to go back in time and change one thing would you do it?

     yes

If a doctor gave you five years to live, what would you try to accomplish?

      there is no one thing. Just to be more cognizant, I think, and open about it.

What is the difference between falling in love and being in love?

      chemistry v. psychology. Happenstance v. effort. Reaction v. connection.

Who do you think stands between you and happiness?

      50 pounds of stubbornness, money, and the 70-some more days until spring

What is the difference between innocence and ignorance? 

    innocent is unintentional. Ignorance is a choice.

 

[from here; the title quotation is from the Dalai Lama XIV, from The Art of Happiness : A Handbook for Living]