Ways To Be Happy

Happiness: Definition

Happiness is defined as the act of having pleasure, contentment, satisfaction, and joy. When a person is happy, he is cheerful and jolly. Not only is he happy within himself, but he lifts the spirits of those around him. Happiness is something most people strive for, and some never get it.

There are simple things you can do to put yourself in line to be happy. If you are already happy, you can become happier.

Benefits of Being Happy

Most people do not realize that there are health benefits to being happy. Research has found that being happy not only makes a person feel good, but happiness also helps people live longer. People who are happy are healthier and live more productive lives.

Since there are health benefits to being happy, it would be wonderful if everyone could be happy. There are some things out of our control that prevent us from being happy all the time. However, there are some things we can do to promote more happiness.

1. Spend Time Outside

Unhappy people tend to stay in the house in a dark room because they don't want to face the world. Because they are unhappy, they do not want to be around happy people. Therefore, they hibernate. That is one of the worst things unhappy people could do.

Spending time outside will lift a person's spirits. Fresh air and sunshine can help anyone feel better. A study shows that spending just 15 to 20 minutes outside on a nice day will make anyone feel better.

People who spend time outside tend to be more positive. Not only that, but they have increased cognitive functions. When a person is outside, he can't help but enjoy God's creation. Seeing the green grass, beautiful flowers, and gorgeous trees will help unhappy people get a better perspective on life. The bright sunshine or a cool breeze might be just what the mental health doctor orders.

2. Show Gratitude

Thanking someone for doing something for you helps you more than it helps the other person. When you express gratitude to others, you become happy and very optimistic.

Some people keep a gratitude journal and write down at least one thing they are grateful for every single day. Others make it a habit to recount the day, and thank God for what they encountered before retiring for the night. It really doesn't matter how you do it, as long as you demonstrate what you are thankful for.

3. Be Generous

When you give something to someone, it helps both of you. Studies have shown, and givers attest, that when you give, both parties experience happiness.

People often think that what you give must always be money. Surely, money is appreciated, especially when people need it most, but there are other things that can be given as well. Give someone a kind word, encouragement, a smile, or some of your time. Giving involves sharing what you have with others when they need it.

4. Stop Procrastinating

Most people do not associate procrastination with being unhappy. However, putting things off can lead to sadness and discontentment. There is no peace when something is hanging over your head that you need to do.

Avoid delaying those tasks that you need to do. Once you complete them, you will feel a sense of relief that leads toward your happiness.

5. Try Something New

Do something new. Do something different. Do something unfamiliar. Read a different type of book. Watch a different genre of movies that you don't usually watch. It will be refreshing to step out of your comfort zone.

Some people get into a rut by doing the same thing. When you challenge yourself to learn a new skill or start a new hobby, you will be self-confident and establish a sense of accomplishment. That will boost your mood and make you happy in the long run.

Something Else?

If you can think of something else that will make you happy, share it with others by writing it in the comment section below. If you do, you will fulfill suggestion #3 by being generous. Therefore, while the intent is to help others, you will also be helping yourself.