In today’s society, happiness can seem like some elusive state of mind that only certain people can attain. However, anyone can cultivate a happy attitude, and keep it for the rest of their life. Happiness starts from within, no matter your current circumstances.
Happiness simply means finding joy in this very moment, regardless of what you have or what you’re doing. Everybody possesses the capability to choose happiness because every attitude we have is a choice.
“Happiness held is the seed; happiness shared is the flower.” – Author Unknown
Make happiness a habit with these 5 tips:
1. Be happy with who you are.
Not surprisingly, the current state of the world reflects the collective consciousness, which means the planet needs a good dose of happiness to turn things around. That transformation begins with you because when you become happy within, that energy ripples out far beyond your physical body, affecting the entire universe. No matter where you live, what job you have, or how much money you make, choose to feel happy with who you are on the inside.
But how do you become happy with yourself? Simple – just choose happiness in any given moment. See yourself as the perfect, limitless being that you are, and let your true nature shine through. When you start to love yourself and reveal your unique, raw essence to the world, you encourage others to do the same. Remember, happiness is contagious, so spread it as much as you can!
2. Ask someone what made them happy today.
At the checkout counter at the grocery store, or while you wait in line at the bank, strike up positive conversations with strangers. Invite them to engage in an encouraging conversation that will make them think about what made them happy that day. Not only will this help them forget about anything negative they may have encountered, but it will make them realize how much better they feel focusing on the positive aspects of their life. Make happiness a part of your daily conversations, and it will naturally become a habit after a while!
3. Find an exercise regimen you love.
Whether you enjoy yoga, running, biking, swimming, or hiking, just find something you genuinely love to do that doesn’t even feel like exercise. Cultivate a regular routine so you don’t get sidetracked or discouraged, and maybe find some friends who enjoy similar activities and can tag along with you. Whatever you do, just choose to get active often. Exercise releases endorphins, which will give you a natural high, promoting feelings of well-being and vitality. It also makes you more confident, which will help increase your overall happiness.
4. Get uncomfortable often.
Unhappiness often arises when people give into normalcy and mundane routines, not allowing themselves to get out of their comfort zone. If you want an adrenaline rush, try something new. Go base jumping, skydiving, rock climbing, or sing karaoke in front of a crowd. Conquer your fears, and you will conquer yourself. Plus, you will get to know a whole new side of yourself, and gain confidence from your accomplishments.
Make trying new things a habit, and you will soon find that your life feels more exciting and unpredictable again. It can be easy to get stuck in a rut and hide under the familiar blankets of security, but as they say, “variety is the spice of life.” You can choose what kind of life you live, so choose one that makes you come alive, not one where you feel under-stimulated and unhappy.
5. Think happy thoughts.
A happy life and happy thoughts go hand in hand; you can’t have one without the other. Negative thoughts will inevitably enter your brain from time to time, but you don’t have to give into them. Just observe them, let them pass, and reinforce happy thoughts. Even in highly stressful and undesirable situations, you can still choose to look at the bright side of things. For example, if you get into a car accident where your car is totaled, but you and the other driver come out with just a few minor scratches, keep your attention tuned to the fact that you made it out alive.
You can avoid a lot of unnecessary inner turmoil by staying focused on the positive aspects of life, and avoiding any drama that you might create for yourself and others. Life becomes a lot simpler when we simplify our thoughts and realize that we must strive to maintain happiness if we want to thrive during our time on Earth.
What do you to to keep a happy heart? Join us on Facebook and tell us! We would love to hear.
