Happiness has long been considered an important part of well-being. The pursuit of happiness was even placed on par with life and liberty in the United States Declaration of Independence.
A broad range of opinions on what makes us happy exist. One family of views, hybrid theories, attempts to reconcile diverging intuitions by identifying happiness with both life satisfaction and domain satisfactions.
1. Focus on the present
We can get caught up thinking about the past or worrying about the future, but staying in the present can help us appreciate what we have. Focusing on the present can also help you be more productive, by giving each task your full attention.
Try noticing your surroundings, being mindful when eating, and not scrolling through social media while you’re doing it. Practicing mindfulness can also help you feel more relaxed and calm.
5. Don’t sweat the small stuff
The old adage “don’t sweat the small stuff” is well-meaning, but it can be hard to put into practice. It’s important to remember that little annoyances like forgetting to put the lid back on the toothpaste can add up and lead to stress and anger. Practicing cognitive behavioural therapy techniques, such as thought records, can help you to keep these things in perspective. These calming ceramic container soy candles are perfect for bringing in the not sweat the small stuff vibes!
6. Be kind to yourself
Many people generously show compassion to friends and family – yet struggle to extend this kindness towards themselves. Self-compassion is about showing yourself the same level of kindness that you would show others – and accepting that your suffering, mistakes and flaws are part of being human.
Instead of berating yourself when you make a mistake, try giving yourself a pep talk by saying “I forgive myself” or “I understand that I’m only human”. These simple strategies help to create new neural pathways in the brain and reinforce positive self-talk patterns.
7. Practice gratitude
Cultivating gratitude builds stronger relationships and helps us notice the everyday pleasures of life. It also reduces stress, bolsters physical health, and improves mental well-being.
Practicing gratitude can be as simple as saying “thank you” or writing a letter of appreciation. Alternatively, try keeping a gratitude journal or using a daily gratitude practice such as a gratitude jar.
Counting blessings can also be as simple as considering what life would be like without certain people and things. For deeper impact, go for depth over breadth by thinking in terms of fewer but more detailed items.
8. Make a list of things you’re grateful for
The things you focus on grow, so writing a list of the things you’re grateful for is an easy way to keep your happiness topped up. This can help you feel happier, more satisfied, and healthier.
Make it a goal to do this every day, and try theming your lists (example: gratitude journal on Monday, wellness inspirations on Wednesday). Write the list however you like – even in your best squiggly handwriting!
9. Practice gratitude
Gratitude is one of the most effective happiness strategies, according to research. It encourages people to recognize and appreciate the good things in their lives, and it also helps them realize that they wouldn’t be where they are without others’ help.
Ask students to write down one thing that they are grateful for on a slip of paper and place it in a gratitude jar. This strategy can be used regularly to instill the habit of appreciating the positive aspects of life.