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With a lot of responsibilities and tasks demanding our attention every day, it can be hard to get a break. As a result, many people feel stressed out, overworked, and decidedly unhappy. Some may think that happiness is something you're either born with, or without.
Positive psychologists say otherwise – that happiness is a series of habits that you can practice and cultivate until it becomes part of you. Short of signing up for a stress management program, which would no doubt work, what can you do every day, to bring in a bit more happiness.
1. Do something fun. Having something to look forward to that you're sure to enjoy can give you a glimmer of hope even through a bad day at work. Whether you schedule a movie out with friends, or a trip to your favourite beach over the weekend, mark it on your calendar.
Even if the event isn't for a few months, preparing for it will still give you the happy boost you need from time to time.
2. Be grateful. At the end of the day, sit down and list 3 to 7 things you're grateful for, no matter how big or small, important or mundane. Counting your blessings is a great way for you to be more mindful of the little things that happen every day.
Had just enough change to buy a treat from a vending machine? Write it down. Didn't get into a car crash on your commute home? That's definitely going on the list.
3. Munch a healthy snack. Crackers with peanut butter, an apple with cheddar cheese, or greek yoghurt with your choice of fruit. These are all snacks that balance carbs, fat, and protein, which can help improve your mood. A square of dark chocolate is a good idea, too.
4. Pick a 'flow' activity. Have you ever gotten into an activity where you lost all track of time, perhaps even place? That's 'flow', and it can happen with anything you tend to get really involved in. So whether it's drawing, dancing, cooking, or even knitting, don't be afraid to indulge.
5. Take a walk. Walking down a forest path or in a park is commonly recommended in stress relief programs, and it works as a mood booster, too. It combines light exercise with peaceful surroundings – two things that work to help you feel better.
Positive psychologists say otherwise – that happiness is a series of habits that you can practice and cultivate until it becomes part of you. Short of signing up for a stress management program, which would no doubt work, what can you do every day, to bring in a bit more happiness.
1. Do something fun. Having something to look forward to that you're sure to enjoy can give you a glimmer of hope even through a bad day at work. Whether you schedule a movie out with friends, or a trip to your favourite beach over the weekend, mark it on your calendar.
Even if the event isn't for a few months, preparing for it will still give you the happy boost you need from time to time.
2. Be grateful. At the end of the day, sit down and list 3 to 7 things you're grateful for, no matter how big or small, important or mundane. Counting your blessings is a great way for you to be more mindful of the little things that happen every day.
Had just enough change to buy a treat from a vending machine? Write it down. Didn't get into a car crash on your commute home? That's definitely going on the list.
3. Munch a healthy snack. Crackers with peanut butter, an apple with cheddar cheese, or greek yoghurt with your choice of fruit. These are all snacks that balance carbs, fat, and protein, which can help improve your mood. A square of dark chocolate is a good idea, too.
4. Pick a 'flow' activity. Have you ever gotten into an activity where you lost all track of time, perhaps even place? That's 'flow', and it can happen with anything you tend to get really involved in. So whether it's drawing, dancing, cooking, or even knitting, don't be afraid to indulge.
5. Take a walk. Walking down a forest path or in a park is commonly recommended in stress relief programs, and it works as a mood booster, too. It combines light exercise with peaceful surroundings – two things that work to help you feel better.
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