Hard being happy every day

DO you want to be happy for 100 days in a row? Social media has found a way to put a smile on your dial.

A wave from a stranger or a cuddle from a pet, these are just some of the things that people have learnt to appreciate through the #100happydays challenge. And people from across the globe are taking part.

The challenge is simple. Register on the official, then choose your platform to share your photos. Most choose Instagram or Facebook. All you have to do is submit a picture of what made you happy, every day for 100 days with the hashtag #100happydays. It can be anything from a braai with friends to a special family moment. Once completed, you will receive an online book capturing all your happy moments. Sound simple?

Well according to 71% of participants failed to complete the challenge, citing a lack of time as the main reason.

Although Ashleigh Mackilligan, 23, of South End, only reached day 17, she said she still uploaded her happy photos onto Instagram, even though she did not stick to the challenge.

"I won't receive my book, but I feel it's a great thing to carry on with, regardless," the Centrestage PR and marketing agent said.

"The happy photos are great to reflect on when you think you're having a bad week or month. You can just look at your photos and tell yourself to stop being so melodramatic and appreciate the life you have."

Samantha Bowers, 44, of Lorraine, said the concept was a good way to see positive things on a daily basis. "I, like many others, am sometimes so overwhelmed by all the negativity around me and the business of life that I forget," the Business Women's Association Port Elizabeth branch coordinator said.

And, as the website states: "It is not a contest. If you try to please or make others jealous via your pictures, you lose without even starting."

• Share your #100happydays pictures with us by posting them to social media using #HappyPE or email them to zest@timesmedia.co.za.