We all want to find happiness, but with so many of us feeling overworked, overstressed, and overwhelmed, it’s easier said than done.
But here’s the good news: Seven little acts that can give you a daily does of happiness.
1. Expand your positive self-talk.
We all have an inner conversation going on, and even though we tune it out much of the time, it influences our thoughts, our actions, and our state of mind. If you want to be happy, you need to start by making sure your worst enemy isn’t living between your ears. Listen to your self-talk and keep it positive–or, at a minimum, create some positive affirmations to throw into the mix. A happy mind makes for a happy life.
2. Create small wins.
We may not be able to be happy all the time, but we can assure ourselves of happiness every day by making small wins go a long way. When you celebrate victories of every size, you stay focused on positivity and gratitude. And a series of small wins builds momentum, which counters any temptation to give up.
3. Connect deeply with people.
Connection with others is one of the most important factors in our happiness. Those with close ties to people they can count on are happier and healthier–and they live longer. Cultivating close relationships provides meaning, support, and love, and it gives you a source of validation that improves your sense of self-worth. Create new connections and deepen the ones you already have, and your happiness will benefit.
4. Find time to relax and time to move.
Body and mind are closely connected, and it’s impossible to have a happy mind without take care of your body. Eating well, being active, and getting enough sleep will make you happier and healthier. Exercise, especially, can boost your mood, giving you more energy when you need it. Sufficient sleep lets you go into the day with the best combination of energy and relaxation. When we run faster, eat better, sleep longer, try harder, aim higher, and love more, day by day we become happier.
5. Show appreciation.
We live in such busy times that it’s easy to get caught up in the day-to-day grind and forget to appreciate the path we’re on and the people who are supporting us along the way. Appreciation is among the best and purest of feelings, one that is guaranteed to foster happiness. When you can remember to be grateful for the things that most people take for granted–and especially when you can express your gratitude to the people who help and guide you–you’ll find that you’re happier, healthier, and more content.
6. Learn something new every day.
Learn whatever you can whenever you can from wherever you can. Keep a curious, open mind and a willing heart, and you’ll find the unmistakable happiness of living simply, loving generously, and learning constantly. Try to learn something new every day–by learning you will teach, and by teaching you will learn. You’ll be inspired and motivated–and happy.
7. Find meaning.
There’s a resonance that we gain only in awareness of ourselves as part of something bigger than ourselves. Meaning and purpose bring not only happiness but also depth to our lives. Seek out the things that make you feel more connected, more fully engaged. Don’t wait for life to give you meaning but find meaning to give to your life.
More often than not, the circumstances of life are beyond our control, but our response is a different matter. Find ways to actively seek happiness every day, whatever else is going on, and you’ll find that you’re living a happier life.
N A T I O N A L B E S T S E L L E R
THE LEADERSHIP GAP
What Gets Between You and Your Greatness
After decades of coaching powerful executives around the world, Lolly Daskal has observed that leaders rise to their positions relying on a specific set of values and traits. But in time, every executive reaches a point when their performance suffers and failure persists. Very few understand why or how to prevent it.
Additional Reading you might enjoy:
- 12 Successful Leadership Principles That Never Grow Old
- A Leadership Manifesto: A Guide To Greatness
- How to Succeed as A New Leader
- 12 of The Most Common Lies Leaders Tell Themselves
- 4 Proven Reasons Why Intuitive Leaders Make Great Leaders
- The One Quality Every Leader Needs To Succeed
- The Deception Trap of Leadership
Photo Credit: Getty Images
Of Lolly’s many awards and accolades, Lolly was designated a Top-50 Leadership and Management Expert by Inc. magazine. Huffington Post honored Lolly with the title of The Most Inspiring Woman in the World. Her writing has appeared in HBR, Inc.com, Fast Company (Ask The Expert), Huffington Post, and Psychology Today, and others. Her newest book, The Leadership Gap: What Gets Between You and Your Greatness has become a national bestseller.