Many people assume that in order to be happy in life they need to do incredible and extravagant things. They think that if they don’t make a big name for themselves, no one will remember who they were or what they did. In order to be happy, they think they need to live in a large house with expensive things and tons of money. I don’t believe one needs to do any of this or have any of that to be happy and feel fulfilled in life. I know it’s been said before, but it’s the truth; it’s the small things that count. People will remember you even if you did something as simple as holding a door open for them when they had too much in their hands. You shouldn’t go through life thinking that if the whole world doesn’t know your name that you didn’t do anything great with your life.

You could be doing such simple things that will make people remember you forever. It could be something small that may only take you a day. Helping at a local shelter or food drive has a great impact on how one is viewed. Not only will working at these places reflect upon how much of a kind person you are, but the people you helped will be extremely grateful. These people, who may not have even known your name, will always look back on the day you helped them with a smile. They will remember your face and think about how much of a difference you made in their life.

As for money, you don’t need that to be happy; the best moments of your life are priceless. For example, spending a weekend with a close friend could make you the happiest you have ever been. Going apple picking with your family could result in a memory that you will never forget. You don’t need the newest phone or car to feel happy; doing small, free activities can create the same feeling.

You only get one life so don’t spend it all trying to make a big name for yourself. I recommend you go about life trying to always volunteer or help out a little bit in different areas. In the end, not only will you feel good about yourself, but you will also make someone else grateful that you were there to help. Only you can decide whether or not you lived a good and happy life. Don’t let anyone else’s vision of a good life deteriorate yours.