Happy people share similar habits. The good news is, incorporating some simple steps into your life could help you be happier and more content. Sounds pretty good to us.
At Innermost, we believe that everyday should be filled with happiness. Whether it's doing something small like passing a compliment to a stranger, friend or colleague, or a personal daily ritual that helps you get through the day, we wanted to share some of our favourite ways to remain positive - because sometimes, life can throw some pretty nasty curve balls. It's all about how you deal with them, and prioritising you, your happiness and your mental health.
So let's get into it. We've got no time to waste! Here are the 5 habits of happy people that you can do to help you become happier sooner rather than later...
Do something for someone else
If you want to feel good, then do good. Small acts of kindness are definitely the easiest, quickest way of incorporating some happiness into your day. The best part? Most of them are free, and you'll get that instant burst of serotonin whilst you make someone's day.
If you need some inspiration, how about one (or all) of these?
- Offer to help your neighbour
- Email your colleague something nice
- Write someone a note (old school style)
- Give a homeless person some food, or a hot drink
- Stop to lend a hand if you spot someone in need
- Pay it forward
- Let a stranger go in front of you in the queue
See how it makes you feel. We wholeheartedly recommend.
Foster relationships
Let's face it, the status of your relationships with family and friends is probably the most important thing when it comes to your overall wellbeing. Maintaining good relationships can be a challenge in the face of everyday stresses, busy schedules and everything in between, but putting the effort into your relationships will improve your quality of life, the experiences you partake in and your overall happiness levels.
Maintaining a small circle of friends and being proactive about those relationships not only makes you feel happier about yourself but studies have shown it can help you live longer. Science doesn't lie, people! Now go pick up the phone...
Be active
It's no surprise that we're a huge advocator of the importance of exercise. If you’ve ever exercised, you’ll know all about the post-workout rush. There are no two ways about it, being active has been proven to help us to feel happier, increase energy levels and reduce tension. Exercise is one of the greatest serotonin boosters around, so grab your skipping rope, hula-hoop, running partner or head to your nearest gym, because a daily workout (big or small, day or night) will get you well on your way to increased happiness levels. Get in.
If that wasn’t enough, studies have also shown how self-image improved through exercising even when body shape didn’t. If you feel confident, this will shine through.
Treat yourself
Small treats and wins are important, and you need them along the way in order to be happy. Do something good for yourself once a day, and we promise you'll feel a whole lot better for it.
Grab your favourite drink on your way to work, cook that amazing pasta dish for your lunch, block out your evening for a little pamper session or head to the gym and get in a really good workout.
Whatever works for you - make time for it. You're never too busy to bring some more happiness into your life, fact.
Be comfortable with who you are
Finally, don’t fall into the trap of comparing yourself to others. This can be a huge challenge in the face of social media platforms such as Facebook and Instagram. One scroll through Instagram and you'd not be blamed for thinking that everyone and their Grandma is having the time of their lives 24/7, but trust us... it's just not true.
Perfect doesn’t exist and don’t let anyone convince you otherwise. Learning to accept yourself is the key to being happy. Celebrate your uniqueness. Be you!
References
- Annesi, J. J. (2000). Effects of minimal exercise and cognitive behavior modification on adherence, emotion change, self-image, and physical change in obese women. Perceptual and Motor Skills, 91(1), 322-336. Click here.
- Branje, S. J., Frijns, T. O. M., Finkenauer, C., Engels, R., & Meeus, W. I. M. (2007). You are my best friend: Commitment and stability in adolescents’ same‐sex friendships. Personal Relationships, 14(4), 587-603. Click here.
