Life is a game that some are better at than the others. But what makes happy people happy? Is it a conscious effort? Or is happiness a habit? And can it be inculcated over time? If your life isn't going according to your plans, and you're feeling a little down, then there are plenty of simple things that can help. Here are some secrets of happy people that we could all learn if we want to lead happier, and healthier lives.
Let Go
Often times there are little things that bog us down and make us unhappy, and cranky – it could be your neighbor playing the music too loud, a relative making a sarcastic comment or, as all relatives do, giving unsolicited advice. If you hold on to these petty issues, then you'll only feel worse. Instead, learn to let go. Take a deep breath and let it all out. It's definitely easier said than done but with practice, you'll get there.
Laugh away
Laughter is scientifically proven to have health benefits. Don't just wait around for things that will make you laugh but try and seek them out. Rent comedy movies or watch comedy shows. This is a great stress buster, too and will lift your mood even during the worst of times. You can actually laugh away the blues, we assure you that.
Manage stress
As we go about our daily life, we inevitably come across problems, and issues that take up much of our attention and leave us feeling down. At the end of the day, sometimes we're so stressed that we neglect the things that matter to us. Learn to manage your stress – take that yoga class, or have a daily night time ritual that you look forward to – and you'll be in much better frame of mind.
Learn more
Happy people are constantly learning and evolving. Keep pushing yourself to learn new things, whether it's a skill like cooking or a musical instrument, or becoming an expert on a particular topic. When you're learning something new, your mind is occupied and alert. It also brings a sense of purpose to your days and leaves you feeling quite content.
Be thankful
Practicing gratitude is one of the easiest ways to be happy. When you're thankful, you're focusing on the positive things in your life and that has an instant uplifting impact on your mood. Say thank you to your mother for that wonderful meal, be grateful that you are in good health, and appreciate all that your friends do for you. When you start seeing the goodness around you, you'll be much happier than you've ever been before.
Stay active
Get outside each day, even if the season doesn't make it look all that enticing. You'll get fresh air, sunshine, and activity that the body secretly craves. Make it a mission to incorporate some form of exercise in your daily routine and it will become a habit soon. Those who exercise, and are active are much happier than those who don't.
Organized living
Chaos gives rise to chaos. If your home, car, and office are a disorganized mess, then that means you are surrounded by a lot of negative energy. Eliminate clutter from your life to be more at ease with yourself. You'll be amazed by how great you feel when it's all neat and tidy.
Invest in relationships
Research shows that married people are happier than single people. This could be because we are social beings and function well in groups rather than alone. When you are feeling down, the best way to cheer yourself up is to surround yourself with people you love and cherish. They hold the power to make you happy, just as you hold the power to make them happy.
Sleep enough
If you don't get enough sleep, everything else will suffer. Sleep deprivation messes with your metabolism, makes you more likely to be overweight, increases your appetite, decreases your productivity, hampers your immune system, and makes you tired, moody, anxious and depressed. If you're not getting enough sleep, or you feel lethargic when you wake up, then consider checking your sleep habits.
Value happiness
Lastly, the best possible way to make and keep yourself happy is to value happiness and make a conscious effort to be happy, no matter what your circumstances may be. You have to remind yourself that you have the power to set the mood of the day and then choose to be happy. It's not easy, but the effort will be worth it. After all, being happy adds years to your life, and life to your years.
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