4 Things That Really Make Illinois Residents Truly Happy

Listen, this might just be from years of observing people around Rockford, but I think I've cracked the code on what makes people happy in Illinois.

It doesn't take much to make an Illinois person happy, trust me.

I've lived in Illinois my whole life, and honestly, there have only been a handful of moments when I’ve said, "I need to get outta here." Most of the time, I’m pretty content—it's home, I ain't goin' anywhere.

But, every now and then, something happens that makes me question everything. Every winter, I always hit a pothole that makes me reevaluate my entire existence.

Like, why me?

Why did I have to hit the deepest pothole on the planet and ruin my car?

Why do I continue living in a place where potholes are everywhere?

Why is the universe not giving me a little bit of grace?

Suddenly, it feels like it might be time to pack up and head somewhere else. But, as I sit stuck in the hole, I realize life in Illinois is pretty good despite some of its flaws. In fact, there are a few things that truly make Illinois residents happy living in this state.

Maybe it's just me, but these four things can really change someone's mood.

#1: Good Roads
When the roads are clear and bump-free, we're golden.  No honking, no road rage, nothing to see beside the beautiful road ahead of us. It’s the little things, seriously.

#2: All-Seasons State
It's crazy to think some adults have never seen or touched snow in their lifetime.  I can only imagine it's like a baby experiencing it for the very first time.

#3: Stress-Free Work Environment
Give me a task, let me get it done, take a lunch break, and go home.  That simple.

#4: Tolerable Neighbors
Let's face it: as long as your neighbors aren't blasting music at 3AM or mowing the lawn before 8AM, we're generally happy with the people who live around us.  Be a good neighbor and we're all happy!

It's not that hard to find things to make us happy.  If you've lived in Illinois for even a few years, what truly makes you happy living in this state?  And don't say "leaving."

My answer?  Being just minutes away from family.