Boost Your Happiness…
Do you ever feel like your mind is working against you? More often than not, your negative thoughts can take over and prevent you from finding happiness and positivity in the world around you. Your outlook on life and the quality of your life will both improve as a result of implementing these five tips for boosting your happiness.
1) Write Down 3 Things Every Day
Psychologists have discovered that writing down three things you’re grateful for each day improves your level of happiness. This is a great practice because it forces you to think about what really matters in your life, instead of fixating on all that doesn’t. Instead of saying I’m unhappy because my car got broken into, start thinking I feel that I’m so lucky to live in such a beautiful country or I had such a fun weekend with my friends. Even just adding more positivity into your daily routine can make you happier—and writing things down makes sure you don’t forget them.
2) Maintain Good Posture
Staying hunched over for extended periods of time will cause you to feel more negative emotions, like sadness and depression. Improve your body language by practicing good posture. Standing up straight makes you feel proud and confident, which in turn inspires pleasant ideas in your mind. If you’re feeling down, take a break and remind yourself what it means to stand tall—not just physically but emotionally as well. Sitting at a desk all day? Take frequent breaks so that you can get up and move around; chances are, you won’t be so worried about your posture if you’re out taking a walk outside or on a treadmill at your gym! For bonus points: stretch those fingers before you start typing away on the keyboard.
3) Do Something New
Happiness might seem like an unreachable goal when you’re feeling down. But giving yourself some time and space can help change your mindset—even if that means doing something new. Take a class in a subject you’ve always been interested in or spend an afternoon volunteering with a friend at an organization you love. Doing something positive can shift your mood and give you more reasons to smile. It also offers your brain a chance to figure out what makes you happy, so get moving and get some me-time. If thoughts still weigh on your mind, consider talking them over with someone close; sometimes what we need most is perspective from those around us who truly care about our well-being.
4) Take Time Out For Yourself to Boost Your Happiness
Taking time for oneself may have a significant impact on your overall well-being. By carving out a few minutes each day to do something you enjoy, you can make sure that you never go long without some positive personal time. Whether it’s taking a break to read, meditate or listen to music, giving yourself a daily mini-break can help give your mind and body some much-needed rest—and get you ready for whatever might come next in your day. What should it be? There are no rules; do what brings you happiness!
5) Surround Yourself With Positive People
Research has shown that just being around happy people helps you feel happier. Spend more time with your friends. And don’t be a people-pleaser—if they’re negative, then remember that you have a choice in who you spend time with! Read at least one positive book or magazine every day: You might not always be in a positive mood, but reading something positive can help turn your mood around in no time. Plus, it will remind you of all the good things in your life, and boost your happiness.
Additional Resource: Happiness Starts With You Course
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