Adopting Some Habits for a Happy Life
3rd October 2017
Happiness can seem elusive, or always just out of reach. We may think we’ll be happier
when we get a raise or move somewhere better or once our kids are older or once we
overcome a current trial in our lives. The reality of happiness is that it’s a journey, a part of
the process. We can feel happiness all along the way, and it usually comes as a result of
other behaviors rather than explicit pursuit of happiness.
Some habits have been proven to increase our happiness and mental health. Adopting one
or more of these habits will make a huge difference in our lives and happiness. Could you
try one of these?
• Make Your Bed. It’s an early start to your day that makes a world of difference. People
who make their beds retain a sense of peace and control over their environment. It only
takes a second!
• Gratitude Practice. Happy people are grateful people. There’s no “right” way to do this,
either. Essentially you just need to find a way to notice or express gratitude for your life.
Some people like journaling, others like gratitude prayers, mantras, or spoken thanks. Just
remembering what you have to be grateful for can improve your happiness dramatically.
• One of the best ways to increase happiness is to spend time on projects, hobbies, or
skills. Even if they seem frivolous, hobbies and skills bring perspective and joy into your life.
• Family Time. Making time for your family can be stressful and time-consuming, but
studies show that spending more time with spouses, children, parents, siblings, and
extended family gives you a better sense of connectedness. This connectedness in turn
makes you happier Set up a family game night or dinner at Grandma’s regularly to enjoy more family time.
• Get Outside. Spending time outside is healing to body and soul. Whether you prefer
hiking, boating, long canyon drives, or peaceful scenery on a walk, it can be easy and
beneficial to regularly spend time outside each day, or at least each week. Not to mention it
can make you healthier!
• Learn Something New. Happy people are those who continually learn new skills and try
new things. Read a book about something which interests you. Ask a friend to teach you a
cool skill at which they’re an expert. Watch a totally new movie or documentary with no
background expectations. Take an online class or community course about something cool.
The happiness benefits are large.
Picking up a few of these simple and easy habits can increase the happiness in your life and
help you see the good in each and every day. You deserve balance, happiness, and peace.
We wish you luck in creating a healthier life!