Visit Wellness Central to explore the 6 Dimensions of Wellness for a healthier and happier you.
Happiness is not an exit off the freeway. The only way to reach this destination is to look within yourself.
Here are a few tools that may help:
https://www.ted.com/topics/happiness
https://greatergood.berkeley.edu/happiness/definition
1. Be easily amused. People who laugh and smile are happier and usually live longer than people who lack a sense of humor.
2. Don't dwell on the negative. If there's something wrong, accept it and move through it. Rumination won't help and can lead to depression. If you can't stop the thoughts, see a professional.
3. Trust that your life has meaning. If it doesn't, or you can't find any at the moment, act as if you have it until you stumble on what really floats your boat.
4. Do something nice for yourself . It doesn't have to cost money or be a big deal. Sometimes just watching the sunset and letting the world go by can be very healing.
5. Always have something with you to read. This way, you'll not be bored or waste time. When you read, you are relaxing and learning.
~for every minute you are angry you lose sixty seconds of happiness~
6. Do something for someone else, without expectations. Retrieve the neighbors' garbage cans from the curb. Help a little old lady get her shopping bags into the car. Visit a sick friend. These may seem like insignificant little things but think how you would feel if someone were similarly helpful to you or someone you love.
7. Eat something you love to eat once a week. Deprivation is depressing. Even if it means you have to spend an extra 20 minutes on the treadmill, that tiny piece of chocolate cake can make you feel like you're not being deprived.
8. Get outside and appreciate your environment. Sunlight and fresh air are now being touted as ways to prevent certain types of cancer. The healthiest thing you can do for yourself, emotionally and physically, is simply taking a walk.
9. Giving love and understanding is the first step in receiving it. This is one of the oldest and wisest pieces of truth. Giving away what you want is a great way to ge what you need.
10. Always have a goal. Happiness comes from moving toward what you want, not from getting it. Anytime you achieve a dream, replace it, so you always have something to look forward to.