We all want to be happy and we keep trying various things to do that. Our passions, expectations, life experiences, and even our personalities all contribute to the level of happiness we experience in our lives. Some find happiness in their careers while others prefer the bliss found in their marriages and other intimate relationships.
The definition might be different for all of us but there are certain universal and time-proven strategies to bring and sustain, more happiness into your life.
Here are the 10 mantras which can be adapted and even customized to fit your needs. Over time, these strategies will become positive and life-changing habits that will begin to bring more happiness, joy, and peace into your life.
1. Practice Gratitude
We often keep crying about the spilled milk and keep complaining about the things or moments that we don’t have. How many times do we say the words- Thank you, in a day? How many times do we hear the same words? If we start practicing the first thing, the latter will eventually happen. Learn to be grateful and you will be open to receive an abundance of joy and happiness.
2. Let the child in you always be with you
Do you remember how was your life when you were a child? We were not jealous of anyone, didn’t care what others might think about us, didn’t keep the things at heart, and be jealous or envious. One way to find or maintain happiness is to remember the kid you were and play the game of life, it becomes much easier.
3. Be optimistic
Some of us see the glass as half full, while others see the glass as half empty. The next time you are caught in traffic, begin thinking how nice it is to have a few moments to reflect on the day, focus on a problem that you have been trying to solve or brainstorm on your next big idea. At the end of the day, you will be more content, at peace, and happy. Take the time to begin to notice what’s right and see the world changing in front of your eyes.
4. Always carry kindness in your pocket
No question merely watching acts of kindness creates a significant elevation in our moods and increases the desire for us to perform good deeds as well. Kindness is indeed contagious and when we commit to being kind to ourselves and others we can experience new heights of joy, happiness, and enthusiasm for our lives.
5. Invest time in friends
Although an abundant social and romantic life does not itself guarantee joy, it does have a huge impact on our happiness. Learn to spend time with your friends and make friendships a priority in your life. Smile with them, celebrate with them, learn from them, uplift them, and be with them when they need you.
6. Pause in life
There are times when we need the time to unwind, decompress, or to put it simply simple. Time keeps on going at its own pace which might not always be the pace we would choose. Fatigue, stress, and exhaustion may begin to settle in on us faster than we think or notice. The best way is to pause and think and review and then plan.
7. Be a smiley
Sometimes we have to fake it until we make it. I am not suggesting that we not be honest, real, or authentic, but I’m suggesting sometimes we just need to put on a happy face and keep moving forward. Researchers claim that smiling and looking like we are happy will indeed make us happier. Studies further show that if we act like we are happy then we can experience greater joy and happiness in our lives.
8. Set goals
The absence of goals in our lives, or more specifically avoiding to pursue our goals, makes us feel like we are stuck. The pursuit of goals in our personal lives in our relationships or with our careers is the difference between having a mediocre life or a life full of passion and enthusiasm, pursue your goals and watch your happiness soar.
9. Know your passion
Some find meaning in religion or spirituality while others find purpose in their work or relationships. Finding your calling may be much more than accomplishing one simple strategy for increasing your happiness, but having a sense of purpose-of feeling like you are here for a reason-can perhaps bring the greatest joy for all.
10. Know your strengths
One way to achieve happiness is by understanding and identifying our strengths and core values and then begin to use every day. Once we are aware of our strengths and we begin to play to your strengths we can better incorporate them in all aspects of our lives.
11. Excess of everything is bad
Know when to say when, what gives you joy and happiness the first time may not work the second time. Too much of a good thing may begin not to feel as good if the thing “thing” becomes more of a routine or an expectation. Set healthy and reasonable boundaries for yourself and don’t overdo it.
In 2021, try practicing these habits and then happiness will always be in your pockets.