How to Be Happy in Life

How to be happy in life

Want to be happy in life? Here are some tips:

Decide to be happy

Our individual journeys to happiness may be different but the fundamentals are the same – embrace and cultivate the positive, banish the negative.

Nourish your body

Good food, sound sleep, exercise, fresh air and hydration are the keys. Limit exposure to poisons in all their sneaky guises – excess sugar, tobacco, alcohol.

Nourish your soul

Whether it is art, music, books, nature, fine cuisine or mountain climbing, tap into that passion and pursue it relentlessly. Love what you do.

Find your people

Stay with those who really ‘get’ you. They’re the ones who couldn’t care less what you or your house looks like.

Practise gratitude

Each day, spend a little quiet time thinking about the things you are truly thankful for – big, small and seemingly insignificant. Begin a gratitude journal.

Don’t covet all the things!

Prada boots are nice, the flashy car is cool, but don’t mistake their worth. ‘Stuff’ doesn’t bring lasting happiness. It may, however, bring lasting debt!

Run the race you’re in

Focus your energies where they really matter. That’s hard if you are mired in the past, fretful about the future or always comparing yourself to others.

Don’t wait to celebrate

Use your ‘good’ tableware, wear your nicest clothes, make an effort with your grooming, hair and make-up, bring out your bling on an ordinary day.

Donate your time and talent

People who volunteer report greater happiness, better health and a deep sense of connectedness to the community and the wider world.

Fall seven times, stand up eight

This Japanese proverb basically means don’t be a quitter. Treat problems as temporary setbacks or learning experiences, never defeat.

Let it go

Holding onto old hurts hinders happiness. Experts liken it to being in a state of chronic stress. Throw trash on a metaphorical bonfire and breathe easy.

Raise ’em up

Look for the good in all people. Be generous with compliments and kindness towards friends, family and strangers alike. Lifting others up lifts you up.