In 1988, Bobby McFerrin took the phrase, “Don’t worry, be happy,” from Meher Baba and converted it into a song which hit the #1 spot on the Billboard Hot 100 chart.

Is it possible to not worry and be happy?

It is possible and the proof is we have each been able to achieve this worthy ideal at some point in our lives. Establishing a pattern which permits us to be happy instead of worried can give rise to effective action which positively influences and determines our destiny.

Why do we worry?

While each situation is different, it tends to be the lack of something. We can express it in terms of “Not Having” a particular condition or feeling. If we are worried about a poor result on an exam, it’s because we “Don’t Have” the knowledge necessary. If we are worried about a bill which is due, it’s because we “Don’t Have” enough money. If we are worried about an interview we are about to have, it’s because we “Don’t Have” enough preparation. If we are worried about what happens when we pass from this reality which we call life to another reality which is yet unknown, it’s because we “Don’t Have” certainty of what is going happen.

How can we be happy?

While the possibilities are endless, it has to do with “Having” something. We are happy because we “Have” enough knowledge which allows us to shine on an exam. We are happy because we “Have” enough money to pay our bills. We are happy because we “Have” the preparation necessary for a positive result on an interview. We are happy because we “Have” our own faith about what will happen when we pass from this reality we call life.

It is possible to not worry and be happy when we focus on what we “Have” instead of what we “Don’t Have.” If we are worried about a poor result on an exam, we can focus on the brain we “Have” and the capacity we “Have” to increase our knowledge. If we are worried about a pending bill, we can focus on the mind we “Have” and creativity we “Have” to make money. If we are worried about an interview, we can focus on the experience we “Have” and the common sense we “Have” to better prepare ourselves for the encounter. If we are worried about the only thing which really lurks beyond for everyone regardless of color, race, creed or economic status, we can focus on the faith we “Have” or in this instant which we “Have” or on the wonderful memories we “Have” or the children we “Have” or the positive relationships we “Have” or in the magic in each and every moment we can “Have” in an instant.

In a phrase, “Life is not measured by the number of breaths we take, but by the moments that take our breath away.” These moments come from what we “Have” and not from what we “Don’t Have.” Don’t worry, be happy because we all can be thankful for the many things we “Have!”