"I just want to be happier" This is something I hear a lot in my practice. This is often followed by thoughts about what might bring them happiness. The thing is lasting happiness doesn't really lie in the things we’re chasing... a dream tied to achieving goals, getting promotions, or reaching milestones. Yes, these things can bring short term happiness for sure, But lasting happiness isn’t really found in major life events. It’s created through the small things we do every day that nurture your well-being, make you feel good and being present.
Here are my top 8 tips that lead to 'happier' and feeling more fulfilled:
Surround yourself with happy, positive people
The people you spend time with can significantly influence your happiness. Seek out those who uplift, inspire, and make you laugh. Positive connections inspire confidence and creativity, just as minimising the time spent with negative influences can protect your emotional well-being.
Slow down and savor the moment
Life can be busy, and it’s easy to let moments pass by without truly experiencing them. Make an effort to pause and notice the 'good things' in your day, whether it’s enjoying a warm cup of coffee in your favourite mug, appreciating a beautiful view, taking a deep breath of fresh air, or that conversation with a friend. Being present helps you find joy in the ordinary/every day.
Quality sleep
Sleep is something you'll hear me talk about a lot, because it's so important to our emotional and physical health. Sleep is also the key to happiness. A good night’s rest clears your mind, restores your energy, and improves your focus. Make sleep a non-negotiable part of your schedule to feel more refreshed and balanced.
Movement
Physical activity is one of the simplest ways to boost your mood. Movement is medicine! Even a short walk or some light stretching can clear your mind and energise your body. Exercise provides us with serotonin, our happy chemical. Exercise with a friend and do something your really enjoy, you'll get a double whammy, plus dopamine and oxytocin too.
Pay attention to the good things
Take a few moments each day to reflect on the things you’re grateful for. Whether it’s a kind gesture, a sunny day, or a tasty nutritious meal, focusing on the positives helps shift your mindset and build a sense of contentment. I'll often ask my clients to record 5-10 things each day. This rewires the brain so after time they'll naturally pay attention to the good things.
Be Kind to Others
Doing something thoughtful for someone else can brighten their day..and yours too! A small gesture, like a kind word or helping hand, can create a sense of connection and give you a boost of feel-good energy as you'll produce oxytocin (another feel good chemical).
Focus on personal growth
Lets face it we all know that broccoli is a good source of food for our body but what do we feed our brain? A happy brain requires stimulation and growth. Adopting a mindset of growth and learning can transform challenges into opportunities.
Making progress
Happiness isn’t about being perfect, it’s about creating small, meaningful moments that bring you joy. Start by incorporating one or two of these habits into your day and build from there. Every step you take brings you closer to a happier, more fulfilling life.
Check in with yourself regularly and ask what you can do to lift your spirits. Whether it’s spending time on a hobby, calling a friend, or simply taking a moment to breathe and dial down the stress of everyday life! Make choices that prioritise your emotional health.
Start by incorporating one or two of these habits into your day and build from there. Every step you take brings you closer to a happier, more fulfilling life.
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