The pursuit of happiness is something that many people value. Happiness typically involves feeling positive emotions and life satisfaction.
Nevertheless, some philosophical objections surface. For example, some argue that life satisfaction cannot suffice for happiness because other things matter for well-being (e.g., Aristotelians). Then there are worries about paternalism.
1. Invest in yourself
When you think of investing, your mind may go to the stock market or even putting a portion of your income into a new business. Both are investments that could potentially yield high returns, but they also carry some risk.
The same is true of investing in yourself. Whether it’s learning a new skill, working on your mental health, or taking the time to enjoy something creative, you have to determine for yourself what kind of investment is worth your time and energy.
One of the biggest rewards from this type of investment is that it can help you distinguish the truth from falsehood. It can also allow you to develop the skills needed to create solutions that solve societal problems. It can also lead to more fulfilling relationships and a happier life overall.
2. Take care of your body
If you want to have a good quality of life and achieve success, your body needs to be healthy. This means getting moderate exercise, eating a generally balanced diet, avoiding too much alcohol or drugs, and getting 7-9 hours of sleep most nights. A healthy body will prevent disease, maintain a healthy weight, boost your energy levels and make it possible for you to accomplish more in your life.
It may sound like a lot of work and it certainly is not easy. However, if you think of your health as something that is important and part of your moral compass, then it becomes easier to put in the effort. And it really is worth it! You only get one body in this lifetime and it’s important to take care of it.
3. Have fun
It’s true: All work and no play makes Jack a dull boy. Research shows that when we have fun, it boosts our mood, energy and wellbeing. It also improves our performance at work.
Having fun gives us a sense of relief from stress, anxiety and frustration. It’s also a way to nurture and cultivate our relationships.
What’s important to remember is that fun can look different for everyone. It’s not about “fake” fun – the activities that we think of as fun but don’t actually inspire playfulness or connection (think scrolling social media or binge-watching TV). It’s more about seeking light moments and taking time for joy.
4. Be grateful
Research has shown that those who practice gratitude have better mental health, feel less depressed and stressed, have lower levels of cortisol (the stress hormone), are more resilient to emotional setbacks, have stronger relationships, and even experience improved heart health. This is all thanks to the power of positivity and focusing on what you have rather than what you don’t have.
Practicing gratitude can be as simple as writing down what you are thankful for each week, or telling friends and family that you appreciate them. This helps to spread the joy and builds a cycle of appreciation and respect between people.
If you need help cultivating your positive outlook, BetterHelp can match you with a therapist who can teach you the tools needed to be grateful and happier.
5. Be a good friend
Having close friends is great for your mood and happiness. They help relieve stress, provide comfort and support, prevent loneliness and isolation, and even improve physical health by decreasing heart disease risk (Personality and Social Psychology Bulletin).
A strong friendship can also help you stay motivated to reach your goals. Research suggests that having a friend to encourage you to get fit, quit smoking, or make other positive changes in your life can dramatically increase the likelihood of success.
So take the time to invest in your relationships. Make and keep friends who lift you up and treat you with respect. And remember, if you feel like a friend is making you miserable, toxic, or negative, it’s time to re-evaluate the relationship. BetterHelp is a safe, effective, and convenient online therapy service that can match you with a therapist in as little as 48 hours.