Happiness is an emotional state that is characterized with the feelings of joy, satisfaction, and fulfilment. It is something that we all strive for in our daily lives, but it can sometimes feel elusive. However, there are some simple habits that can significantly increase your happiness.
“Sometimes your joy is the source of your smile, sometimes your smile is the source of your joy.” Thich Nhat Hanh
What is Happiness?
Before delving into the habits, it’s important to understand what happiness truly is. Happiness is an emotional state, characterized by feelings of joy, satisfaction, and fulfillment. It’s not necessarily about being ecstatic or euphoric all the time, but rather about feeling content and at peace with your life.
Why Do Some People Feel Unhappy?
Understanding unhappiness is just as important as understanding happiness. One of the most common reasons that can make people unhappy is waiting. When you wait for happiness, thinking you’ll be happy when you hit a certain goal, you deny yourself the ability to be happy in the present moment. In essence, happiness is not a destination, but a journey. It’s about finding joy in the everyday moments, not just in the milestones.
Habits for Happiness
1. Be Kind to Someone Else
Being kind to someone else, including friends and even strangers, is a great way to feel the positive energy. Giving a positive vibe to people around you will bring happiness not only for them but for you as well. It’s a simple act that can have a profound impact on your emotional well-being.
2. Eat Healthy Food
Eating healthy foods will give you lots more energy than junk food will and it is very good for your body. Fueling your body with the right nutrients not only improves your physical health, but also your mental health. It can boost your mood and energy levels, making you feel happier overall.
3. Get Enough Sleep
By getting enough sleep, you won’t feel sluggish and will have a lot of energy in the morning. Sleep is crucial for our overall health and well-being, and lack of sleep can lead to feelings of irritability, stress, and unhappiness. So make sure you’re prioritizing your sleep.
4. Exercise More
When we exercise, our body gives out a hormone called endorphins, often known as the ‘happy hormones’. These endorphins trigger a positive feeling in the body and mind, giving us a feeling of joy. Regular exercise can significantly increase your happiness levels, so aim to incorporate some form of physical activity into your daily routine.
5. Practice Gratitude
Practicing gratitude is another powerful habit for happiness. Consider moments when someone thanked you for something you did. How did it make you feel? Most likely, it made you feel appreciated and happy. By practicing gratitude, you focus on the positive aspects of your life, which can significantly improve your overall happiness.
6. Spend Time with Your Loved Ones
Spending time with people you care about will give you a feeling of happiness. It’s about cherishing the moments with your loved ones, sharing laughter and creating memories. And of course, avoiding people who annoy you can also contribute to your happiness!
To conclude, happiness is not something that just happens, it’s something that we create. By incorporating these simple habits into your daily routine, you can significantly improve your happiness levels. Remember, happiness is a journey, not a destination.
Practicing being happy means taking care of the basics just like these 6 steps. The more of them you can do everyday, the easier it becomes to feel happiness all the time.
I encourage you to incorporate these into your daily life and see what it looks like 30, 60 or 90 days from now.
If you’d a copy of this Happiness Poster to print at home, click here.
