6 habits of the happiest people
Finding a way to be happy can be difficult sometimes, but there are things that happy people do that contribute to their joy. Whether you try all of these, or just give one or two a go next time you’re feeling bad, these techniques should lift you up and help put a smile on your dial.
1. Smile with your heart
A study has shown that simply smiling can actually increase your happiness levels. Interestingly, though, the research also showed that an insincere smile can actually put you in a worse mood – so don’t just smile like you mean it – actually mean it.
2. Practice gratitude
There is research to suggest that people who spend time being thankful are happier and healthier than those who don’t. Taking a moment to take stock of the positive things in your life is a powerful way to bring positivity into your life.
3. Joy in small things
Embrace your happy however you find it. It doesn’t have to be something huge to make you feel good – it could be the joy of a quiet cup of tea in the morning, or the wag of a dog’s tail as you go for a walk. It could be the beauty of a newly opened flower in your garden, or the smell of rain on concrete. Whatever it is that makes you feel warm inside – revel in it.
4. Work work work work work (out)
It seems a shame that so many people never find joy in exercise because they associate it with the negative feelings of PE in school. But holding onto those feelings will deny you of a chance for one of the purest highs available to you – the joy of working out. According to one study, exercise can help alleviate the symptoms of depression, anxiety and stress, and it obviously contributes to improved physical health at the same time.
5. Reach out and touch
Studies have shown that taking time to help others will increase your own happiness. While some feel that the act can be burdensome, the opposite is actually true.
6. Work at being happy
The study of happiness is fascinating and complex, and one prominent researcher, Martin Seligman, has theorised that around 60 per cent of our happiness is due to genetics and environment, meaning that the rest is dependent upon ourselves. So if you don’t take the time to focus on increasing your own happiness, it’s unlikely you’ll find the great happiness you may be seeking. So take time to focus on yourself and what makes you happy.
What’s the one thing you can always count on to make you happy?