What do you need to do to be truly happy? The answer is not simple. Everyone has their own definition of happiness. There are, however, some habits you can practice every day that can help you achieve true happiness. Here are 7 of them:
Positive self-talk
Taking 3-5 minutes a day to speak positively to yourself is a great way to start off your day. It doesn't have to be too long, or too detailed, but take a moment to remind yourself of how great you are. Tell yourself that you will have an amazing day, that you are strong, capable, beautiful and ready for anything life has to throw at you. It may sound corny, but it really works.
Meditation
Meditation is a great way to focus your mind and body. By practicing it every day, it can help you handle stress better, stay calm, and is good for your overall health. Meditation can consist of a full hour of yoga, or 5 minutes of deep breathing with your eyes closed. Whatever you have time for, do it. You will feel refreshed, focused, and happier.
Physical activity
Exercise is the best way to not only help you feel good about yourself, but also feel happier. The endorphins from exercise truly make you feel happy. It can be hard getting up 30 minutes earlier, or heading to the gym after a long day at work, but it is worth it. If you truly feel you don't have time, try taking a walk on your lunch break. Even something that simple can give you those happy endorphins.
Practice kindness
Being kind to others is a simple way to bring joy to your life. Smiling at strangers, holding the door open for the person behind you, helping someone in need, or anything that puts someone before yourself will make you happy. It's the simple things that can make a big difference.
Personal development
Enriching your life through motivational talks and education really help you feel uplifted and keep your mind active. Podcasts are a great way to learn about a topic or idea. You can listen in the car, at the gym, or even while you cook or clean. If Podcasts aren't your thing, take a class, join a club, or simply read a book! Trying to better yourself is really satisfying.
Provide service to others
Serving others is not only helpful, but good for the soul. Whether it's a stranger, or your own children, when you serve, you are losing yourself to help someone else. Your own problems may not seem so big, you may reevaluate what is really important in your life, or you may learn a lesson in selflessness. Whatever comes from it is good, and it helps you feel happier as a result.
Indulgence
Truly happy people know how to indulge every once in a while! Whether it is a giant bowl of ice cream, a long soak in a bubble bath, or buying a new outfit, they know what makes them happy. The key is not to do it too often, otherwise it is not as satisfying. If you do it every day, it will no longer be an indulgence, but a habit. So pick what is your secret pleasure and make sure to indulge every now and then!
It may seem like a lot to pack into one day, but most of the items on the above list can take less than 5 minutes to do. If you make an effort to do these simple things, they will turn into habits and come easily to you. Is your happiness worth it?
