In fact, happiness does have a pretty important role in our lives, and it can have a huge impact on the way we live our lives. Although researchers have yet to pin down the definition or an agreed-upon framework for happiness, there’s a lot we have learned in the last few decades.
This article will dive into the science of happiness, what it actually is, and why it matters.
1. Start with a Good Dose of Gratitude
Being consciously aware of what you’re thankful for can actually change your level of happiness.
When you wake up each morning, spend time time recalling all the things for which you feel grateful.
Start with simple things: Do you have a roof over your head? Enough to eat? It might be helpful to start a gratitude journal. Even when deadlines loom and sleep is just a fond memory, we have something to be grateful about. It can be easy to focus on the negative, but acknowledging the things that are going right can go a long toward an attitude adjustment.
So, slap a smile on your face, take a walk and get some sweet, sweet sleep – it will go a long way toward your lifelong happiness.
2. Make Sure You’re Giving Back
Do you give 10% of your income to your favorite charity or church?
There’s something about giving that allows you to receive more in return besides just the awesome act of giving to help others. When you give, you’re sending a message to the Universe that you know everything’s going to be all right.
By giving, you’ll be taken care of, too. You see it from those with very little to those who have millions: you have to give to get and by doing that, your happiness increases.
3. Laugh Every Day (It’s Better than Money)
Do you spend time each day laughing? Do you purposefully find something to laugh about?
When you laugh, you release a happy hormone called oxytocin. It’s a hormone that uplifts us as we share experiences with others. Even just making yourself smile will put you in a better place.
4. Foster Good Relationships with Family and Friends
Happy people don’t spend large amounts of time alone. By spending time with people you like, you forge supportive relationships that help you in times of stress.
You also bond with others through common experiences, such as life’s ups and downs. They become your support network.
People who don’t spend as much time with family or friends are more prone to loneliness and depression.
5. Take Some Alone Time
In contrast to spending time with family and friends, it’s important to step back and take some time for yourself, by yourself.
You can recharge your spirit and find a little peace in a little bit of silence. Taking some time away and being alone can do wonders for your mood and outlook.
6. Do What You Love
Have you ever heard the phrase, “Do what you love, because the money will follow?” Doing things that you love to do–and even better, getting paid for it–are good ways to boost your levels of happiness.
When work feels like play, you’re more likely to enjoy other aspects of your life better, too.
7. Volunteer Your Time
When you give off yourself, either by time or talent, your focus shifts from your life to that of others.
This can help you realize that your own problems may not be that bad. You invariably forge new relationships and experience an uplift in your spirit.
8. Get Enough Exercise
When you take time out for exercise, you’re doing your body good in more ways than one.
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