Happiness is one of the most elusive and sought after states. It is a topic that has attracted philosophers, theologians, and psychologists for centuries.
Researchers often measure happiness through self-reports. While this method has its advantages, it is prone to bias and subjectivity. It is therefore important to understand how different factors influence our happiness.
1. Take care of yourself
Adulthood comes with numerous responsibilities. There are targets to hit at work, errands to run, chores at home, and social commitments. Often, the only way to feel balanced is by doing things for yourself. It is important to do activities that fill your tank, whether it be exercising, going on a relaxing spa day, or reading a good book. It is also a good idea to learn how to say no to people when you feel overwhelmed. It can help avoid burnout and improve your overall wellbeing. You can only give to others on a full tank, so it is crucial to take care of yourself. You deserve it!
The most important part of self-care is your health. Regular exercise increases serotonin levels in the brain resulting in a happier you.
3. Make a difference
You can make a difference by doing good things for others. It does not have to be something big, like changing your career paths, but it can be as small as putting kindness into your daily routine and making volunteering a regular activity for you and your family.
People who are happy do a lot of good for themselves and others. They take better care of themselves physically and mentally, they support their colleagues in the workplace, and they build a supportive network around them. This also benefits their immediate and extended families and their neighbours, co-workers, and even the store workers and bus drivers they encounter on a regular basis.
Doubts about the importance of happiness often stem from relatively weak conceptions of it, such as thinking that it is just a mere emotion and focusing on the feeling rather than its causes and consequences. Other objections concern the use of happiness in policy debates, which some think amounts to paternalism.
4. Be grateful
Happiness is a complex idea that has stumped philosophers, theologians and psychologists for centuries. Today, there is a whole field of research dedicated to it, called positive psychology. But many skeptics argue that happiness isn’t really all that important.
Those who want to live life on a full tank need to be grateful for what they have. This means recognizing that not only do the tangible things in your life matter, but non-tangibles such as health and relationships do as well.
Studies of people who write gratitude letters or keep a daily journal have shown that they experience more positive emotions and are more satisfied with their lives than those who do not engage in such activities. Gratitude may also help you feel healthier by soothing your nervous system. For example, a study of high school students who wrote weekly gratitude letters for 10 weeks had more healthy eating habits than those who simply listed their daily activities.