If you want to know how to be happy, look no further. Here are 70 things you can do to turn that frown upside down and leave it that way forever.
A happy life is the dream, isn’t it? That’s what all of us want. We struggle and toil day in and day out, with the hope of abundant happiness in the future.
But what if we told you that a happy life is just right around the corner? What if you could attain it as soon as you read this feature or within a few weeks? All you need are a few happy things to make you smile day in, and day out.
It’s true, really.
Happiness is very subjective because most of us truly have no idea what happiness is all about. To many people, happiness is a life of riches. For someone else, it’s true love. And, to a few others, it’s three square meals a day.
Ever wondered why happiness means so many different things to so many people? That’s because most of us have no idea what real happiness is. [Read: 25 memorable life lessons you need to learn for a better life]
Happiness and the happy things that matter
If you’re wondering how to have a happy life, you just need to remember a few key details and work towards achieving them.
Many people spend a lifetime chasing elusive happiness, and when they finally realize what it takes to be happy, they may be filled with nothing but regrets. This is simply because they didn’t see the happiness when they had the chance.
But then again, it’s never too late to feel the surge of blissful happiness fill you, is it? [Read: Secret to happiness – the uncomplicated guide for a happy life]
Firstly, we need to figure out what happiness actually is. It’s hard to define because you can’t see it. Happiness, therefore, is a feeling.
It’s a sense of contentment. It’s being secure in your lot. Of course, that doesn’t mean you never dream of big goals, but you know that where you are right now is more than enough.
The happy energy within you
Happiness attracts happiness. Sadness draws sadness. [Read: 20 signs you’re a people pleaser and don’t know it]
If you’re annoyed, scheming, or miserable all the time, everything around you will feel the same way. You’ll draw people who are unhappy and everything around you will drain your happiness away.
As philosophical as this may sound, the energy that you give out is the energy you receive. If you’re positive in your outlook toward your personal world, everything will seem positive and full of happiness.
When you’re genuinely nice to the people around you, they’ll be nice to you in return. [Read: How to stop being jealous of someone else’s success]
If you take people for granted or behave nicely to people only when you need them, the world will treat you the same way.
It’s true that you attract what you put out. There isn’t anything particularly mystical about this, it’s simply your mindset. You don’t see the happy things and good things when you’re focused on negativity. All you see is darkness.
What you don’t realize at the time is that if you just changed the way you see things, you’ll notice major differences in your outlook, your life, and the possibilities and opportunities that come your way. [Read: How to make someone happy – 20 ways to help them sparkle]
What defines happiness for you?
Have you ever sat down by yourself and asked this question? How would you define happiness? What do you think you need to feel happy?
Don’t be impulsive and wish for something that you need right now. Think of the big picture. What is happiness to you?
Only when you have a clear definition of personal happiness, you will be able to achieve it. Isolate money and the material world, and you’ll have your own definition of happiness. [Read: How to make yourself happy – 20 habits of incredibly happy people]
As we’ve already mentioned, happiness is different for everyone. Some people are very happy sitting at home with their own company, a good book, and a cup of coffee.
That’s their idea of enjoyment and contentment. However, other people may need more of a thrill to be happy, a dose of adrenaline perhaps.
It’s a personal deal and there are no right or wrong ways to define your own idea of happiness. [Read: How to be more positive and change your life]
The only troublesome thing is when you place the attainment of happiness solely on material things or money. Those things don’t bring you happiness, at least not over the long term.
By defining happiness for you, you’ll find it easier to start attracting happy things into your life.
Happiness is all in your head
You’re only as miserable as you think you are. There are people around the world who have less than you, yet they feel happiness. Why is that? [Read: Why does everyone hate me? 69 things you do that people probably don’t like!]
Because they decided their mental state. You can choose to see the glass half full or half empty. Of course, for some people, it’s easier to be happy than it is for others.
But you might actually be happier than you realize.
Many of us suffer from a happiness blind spot. We’re actually a lot happier than we realize, but we aren’t focusing on it.
Rather, we focus on the negative, the things that can quickly manipulate our mood and destroy our day. But when you strip it all down, in essence, we aren’t focusing on making ourselves happy. [Read: Is negative thinking ruining your life?]
How to be happy
True happiness is easy to achieve if you have the happy things that matter in your life. If you’re confused about what happiness truly means to you, fret not, because it’s really simple. All you need are these 70 happy things.
Make a checklist of these happy things, and tick them off when you feel like you’ve achieved them.
Then, for the first time in your life, you’ll know what it takes to truly feel happiness, inside and everywhere around you! [Read: 20 things happy couples don’t do in a perfect relationship]
1. Acknowledge that you’re not happy
The first step is to acknowledge that you’re not where you should be. You’re not happy. Okay, so, why is this?
Is it that you’re not happy with yourself? Your relationship? Your job? What is it about you and your life that you’re feeling discontent about? [Read: How to be happy and live life to the fullest]
2. Gain perspective
We all bitch and moan about our lives too much. We all complain about things that we can actually change. Think about other people who can’t change their misfortune.
When you put your life into perspective, you realize that there’s really a lot more to be happy about than there is to be mad at.
This is definitely one of the best things everyone should know that can change lives. [Read: 15 ways to become someone who says “I love my life!”]
3. Let go of negative thoughts
If you think down about yourself all the time, you’re going to feel bad.
Those negative thoughts will penetrate your everyday life, and it’ll be hard to be happy. This is crucial for living a happy life. [Read: How to stop having negative thoughts that drag you down]
4. Choose positive thoughts
Fill your mind with positivity or you’ll just end up miserable and frustrated all the time.
Don’t forget the bad lessons you’ve learned and the experiences you’ve had in your life, but don’t let them bother you all the time.
Comparisons and jealousy are negative thoughts that will always drag you down into the pits. [Read: Signs your negative attitude is ruining your life]
Learn to look at the bright side all the time, and you’ll have a much happier approach toward life every single day.
5. Work on the relationship you have with yourself
The biggest key to being happy in life is probably learning who you are on the inside. We grow up trying to meet certain expectations and we never really stop to think about who we are and what we want.
But one of the things everyone should know about life is that you have to let go of those standards.
You have to set your own standards. You have to learn what you want and how you can get it. It’s not easy, but it is essential. [Read: How to love yourself and be a better you]
Also, never underestimate the power of self-care. Spending time alone and appreciating your company is a good thing. It’s not being lonely, it’s being content with who you are and enjoying the time you spend alone.
Nourish your soul with the things you enjoy, such as reading, taking a hot bath, or watching a movie.
It doesn’t matter what you do, but focus on relaxation and caring for yourself. It’s not selfish – it’s necessary! [Read: How to take care of yourself emotionally and avoid falling apart]
6. Be your authentic self
Not only is it important to work on the relationship with yourself, but once you do that, learning to be your authentic self should be the highest priority in your life. In order to be happy, you have to be comfortable with who you are.
Everyone should know that they’re unique and amazing as is. Strive to let your true self shine every chance you get. [Read: Inspirational ways to bring out the best in yourself]
7. Find a loving partner and spend time with your family
Having someone to love you unconditionally and loving them back in return plays a big part in your happiness. It gives more meaning to your life because you have someone to share every moment of your existence with.
As humans, we have an innate need to feel loved and desired. And just having someone to share your life with can give you a lot of happiness and fulfillment.
After all, love does make everything in life more meaningful and special. That doesn’t mean you necessarily need a partner to be happy. [Read: What is unconditional love really?]
Many people are perfectly happy without being in a relationship. However, you do need someone in your life, be it a best friend, a partner, a family member, etc.
8. Get a satisfying job
In our society, what you do at work defines you as a person. So, do you like what you do? If the one trait that defines who you are as a person doesn’t make you happy, can you ever achieve true happiness through that job?
Do you really like your job, or are you working only for the money it gives you?
You spend a big part of your life working, so try to ensure that you love what you do to earn a living, and that’ll ensure that your life will be full of excitement and fun. [Read: Things to know while making the choice between love and your career]
Remember, “all work and no play” does not lead to a happy life! A good home and work-life balance is key for contentment and health too.
9. Find a few good friends
You don’t need many friends to be happy. You just need a handful of friends that you can trust and spend time with. Can you count your true friends on your fingertips?
In your pursuit of better things, don’t overlook true friendships. Having a few good friends to talk to over the phone or spend an occasional evening with can make you feel more positive and happy. [Read: Why is giving each other space in a relationship so important?]
And even if you’re in a perfect relationship with your lover, both of you need to spend time away from each other now and then to grow as individuals and retain your own lives.
10. Have a hobby or a passion
One of the happy things that can give you a sense of achievement and personal satisfaction is your hobby. If you don’t have a hobby, get one!
Be it fixing a car, gardening, or getting more informed about an interesting subject. As long as you enjoy it, that’s all that matters. [Read: The rules of life – 22 secrets to never be unhappy ever again]
A passionate hobby will give you more confidence and build your interest in things that are beyond your immediate needs.
11. Get a good night’s sleep every day
A good night’s sleep is one of those overlooked things that can wreak havoc in your life, personally and professionally.
Sleep may seem overrated, but when you get less sleep, you’re more sluggish and slower, and your mind works slower than on other days. And let’s not forget about how grumpy you’ll feel all day too! [Read: Couple’s sleeping position guide – positions and what they mean]
Make sure you get at least seven to eight hours of sleep every day. You’ll wake up feeling fresh and excited to face the happy day ahead of you.
12. Go on an occasional adventure or vacation
Don’t ever let your life stagnate. Try at least one new thing every week or go to one new place you haven’t been to before every now and then.
As hard as you slave away your life for a better future, your life will still feel the same unless you look for ways to keep your life exciting all the time. [Read: 15 reasons you should travel at least once a year]
Happiness never sprouts overnight. Start working towards happiness right now, or you’ll never have a happy life even when you reach your perceived milestones.
13. Have a sustainable income
Money is not overrated. Without money, a lot of things you want to indulge in may be out of your reach. But at the same time, money isn’t everything either. Money is just worthless paper if all you do is let it accumulate in the bank.
The value of money is best experienced when you spend it now and then. Don’t idle your life, and ensure that you have a sustainable income at all times. [Read: Love or career? How to make the right choice]
Feeling rich is a state of mind. When you feel like you’re earning enough to have a happy life, your outlook toward life will start to get more positive and happier.
14. Create goals to work toward
Without a purpose or a goal, we’re just animals that exist with no purpose. As humans, we’re constantly looking for a purpose for everything, be it our origins or what happens after our end.
But in between all that time, constantly create small and big goals. And work towards them with dedication. [Read: Things you can do with your life to make it better]
Each time you achieve a goal, you’ll feel a lot better about yourself and your life will feel more focused and adventurous.
15. Exercise regularly
As difficult as stretching your legs or getting your heart racing while doing a cardio workout may seem, a good workout can change your life for the better within a few months.
Working out regularly fills your body with happy hormones and makes you feel good from the inside. And on the outside, you’ll look a lot better, and your clothes will look a lot sexier too. [Read: How to get motivated to exercise and stick to it]
And most importantly, making the effort to work out regularly will give you a sense of accomplishment and increase your determination in life.
16. Eat good food
Food is one of those happy things that can help you appreciate your life so much more.
Cooking a meal together with a lover, sharing dinner with friends, or just checking a new restaurant out when you’re bored will always leave you with a new experience. And truth be told, some of the happiest conversations are shared over good food.
17. Pause, look around, appreciate, and be grateful
The world is a beautiful place. It doesn’t matter how busy you are or how late you are for work. [Read: Time management techniques to have happier relationships]
Press the pause button on your hectic life and learn to appreciate the little happy things that catch your attention.
It’s only when you notice the beauty all around you that you can appreciate your life and fill your heart with limitless happiness.
If you’re not grateful for what you have in your life now, you’ll always be chasing an unreachable goal. Happiness isn’t about getting what you don’t have. [Read: 15 authentic ways to be grateful and express it well]
It’s about focusing on what you already have. Look at your life and acknowledge the things you’re grateful for. This can be friends, family, and passions.
18. Make beautiful memories
Your life is nothing but a collection of memories, don’t you forget that. In your pursuit of wanting happy things in the distant future, you may forget all about the happy things you have around you today.
Can you name ten amazing experiences you’ve had in the last year or two? If you can’t, you’ve been too caught up in planning your future that you’ve forgotten to enjoy your present.
Learn to create happy memories all the time, with whatever you have in your life right now. [Read: Money can buy happiness in love]
If you get this wrong, you may attain your long-term goals in life someday, but you may have no recollections of anything you’ve experienced along the way. Is that what you really want, a life that’s not worth remembering?
19. Get and stay healthy
We focus so much on material items that we forget the single most important thing you can own – health. Look after your health. Make sure you get enough sleep, exercise regularly, you eat good and healthy food, and you focus on your mental health too.
When you have positive health, you have everything. Remember to get anything you’re worried about checked out and take your doctor’s advice whenever you need to.
Health is wealth! [Read: The health benefits of hugging that’ll make you want to cuddle more]
20. Do good deeds
Doing good deeds for others comes back to you tenfold. You’ll feel good about what you’ve done, and you’ve helped others too.
You could argue that there are never any selfless good deeds out there, but does it matter whether it’s selfless or not? As long as someone has benefitted from your action and you’re feeling good about it too, surely it’s a win-win?
So, volunteer, help your neighbor, donate some money if you can, or just go out and help someone who needs it. You’ll feel warm and fuzzy inside and they’ll sleep better at night too.
21. Spend time in nature
Mother Nature has the power to make us truly happy. Have you ever noticed how you feel relaxed and refreshed after a walk, or how content you feel after a day at the beach? [Read: The power of the words you use and the effect it has on your relationships]
Make it your aim to spend as much time outdoors as you can, and to take the happy factor up a notch, spend time around animals too. You’ll have a long-lasting smile on your face for doing more of both.
22. Be nice to people who matter
You’re the popular one, aren’t you? Great! But are you actually nice to all of them?
Well, you know your P’s and Q’s and you may also overdo them, but are you generally nice to your lover and your good buddies? [Read: Why you can’t find love]
There may be a few things that you’ve been doing wrong, like bossing people around or ranting and arguing for donkey’s reasons.
Slow down and take those rose-tinted shades off. And be genuinely nice to the people who matter. Even if the progress is slow, you’d be able to notice that your friends will start to behave in a better way with you.
If your friends trust you and enjoy your company, they’ll be nicer to you and would want to have a lot of happy conversations with you. Being appreciated and feeling loved can make you a lot happier in just a few days. [Read: How to be nice – 20 easy tips to make everyone love being around you]
This is something you may not notice at first, but we all tend to nag or whine about circumstances and people. Stop bitching about the people who are close and look at the positive side.
If you don’t keep a check on this, we’ll only end up losing great conversations and great friends who are sick of all your negativity.
23. Be more efficient
You do a lot of things every single day, but do you really put your heart and soul into every single thing you do? One of the things that are most frustrating in life is a leftover business that’s been left unattended. [Read: How to be an adult – 27 mature ways to grow up and behave like one]
Every time you feel lazy and push something away for tomorrow, you should remember that you’re only piling your stress up.
It could be doing your laundry or checking up on an old friend. Try to be more efficient and you’ll see how calm your mind can be.
And being efficient isn’t just about ticking away at a checklist. It’s also your behavior with friends and the people around you. [Read: 34 secrets to stop being lazy find the reasons WHY and overcome the excuses]
Do you still flatter your mate or spend time with your loved ones on their special days the same way you used to? Do you really want to spend time with your partner or your family, or is it only because you have to?
These little things do matter. Every little thing that you do does.
If you’re actually spending time with your lover or pals, whether you want to or not, why not just try having a better time doing it? [Read: 55 secrets and self-love habits to build confidence and realize your worth]
And hey, happy times make you happy. And someone who sulks will only miss the happy moment. You know that, don’t you?
24. Meet more people
Meeting new people is the best way to live life to the fullest. The world is full of interesting people, and there’s an opportunity to meet someone interesting in every nook and cranny of your street.
The chances of meeting someone interesting are high when you expand your social horizons. If you want to know how to be happy in life, go out there and mingle. [Read: How to meet people – 16 exciting ways to find a new crowd]
Salsa classes, book clubs, volunteer work, asking friends for help… It’s all out there and filled with people just like you.
Make a note on your checklist, the more effort you put in, the better your chances. Go out into the world and be seen with a smile on your face. And the world will smile at you.
25. Party more
Now, we’re not really being specific to parties that involve gyrating grinds and claustrophobic smoky enclosures. It could be anything, all the way from office dinner parties to the singles night-out kinds. To each their own! [Read: 29 wild and sexy drinking games for couples or friends at a house party]
But one thing’s certain, you will be able to meet a lot of people. If you’re not the party animal or if you don’t like the typical stampede of huge dinner gangs, then group up and form small groups amongst your friends.
You can take turns with a small group, each hosting a dinner party at their place every week or so, with the rule that at least a few outsiders are invited to the dinner every time. Keep yourself busy and meet new people.
The world is full of people, millions of them. And they are all unique, just like you. And every single one wants more happiness in life, just like you. [Read: 18 fun secrets to be the life of the party and be noticed and loved by everyone]
26. Ditch the bad habits
Some people are lazy, some of us whine, and some of us hate getting dressed to go out. Ditch these habits. Only you know the small irritating habits that are holding you down.
If you want to be happy in life, you have to fill your mind with positivity and enthusiasm. Go on out there and be ready for life.
One of the best things you can do is to watch rubber-jaw Jim Carrey’s, Yes Man. It could just change your life. [Read: Healthy trends and how they can benefit you]
Don’t let any bad habit of yours hold you back from being happy in life.
27. Never apologize for your passions
Unless your passions are harmful to yourself or others, never apologize for them. You love what you love. No matter what someone says or thinks about the things you’re passionate about, never stray from them. Being passionate about something is essential for a happy life.
28. Don’t compromise your values
Your values are who you are at your core. They’re what make you, you. That means you can never compromise them. [Read: Questions that will help you stay true to yourself]
No matter what or who for, don’t. If you lose sight of your values and the things that are important to you on such a deep level, you lose yourself and your happiness.
29. Respect others
You may not realize just how important to your happiness it is to respect others, but it’s definitely one of the things everyone should know. When you are respectful to other people, they respect you.
It’s also just about being a good person and understanding how to treat people right. You’ll value yourself more when you respect others. [Read: How to be classy – 20 classy people traits that command awe and respect]
30. Do something just for yourself every week
You may not think this is essential for your happiness, but it is. In life, we get so caught up in work and doing things for others that we often neglect ourselves.
You need to go out and do something to make yourself happy at least once a week. Whether that’s just seeing a movie by yourself or getting your nails done, pampering yourself is a must.
31. Don’t apologize for your beliefs
What you believe in is super important to keeping you happy. One of the things everyone should know in order to live a happy life is that they can’t apologize for those beliefs. [Read: Simple ways to inspire people around you]
If they’re moral and don’t harm you or anyone else, hold firm with them.
32. Stop comparing yourself and your life to others
Everyone does this. There isn’t a soul out there who has never compared themselves to someone else.
But it’s still horrible for your happiness. Nothing good will come from looking at what someone else has and you don’t. Appreciate what you have. [Read: The toxic dangers of social media and 19 signs and ways it makes you insecure]
33. Trust your intuition
Do you know that gut feeling you often ignore? Stop ignoring it. We all have an intuition for a reason. Humans evolved successfully because of this intuition.
If you believe something is wrong or too good to be true, it probably is. Trust your gut and your life will be happier.
34. Know when to forgive and forget
Forgiving and forgetting every time won’t always make you happy, but learning when to will. [Read: Should you forgive and forget? 15 guidelines to follow]
There are certain times when you just have to accept an apology and move on. It can be harmful to hold onto such negative feelings about a person and situation.
35. Learn that it’s okay to say no
You don’t have to always please someone. You don’t exist for the purpose of pleasing others and making them like you.
Learn when to say no and that it’s actually okay to say no. You will be much happier in life this way. [Read: How to say no – 15 ways to reason politely, stop pleasing, and feel kickass]
36. When you love someone, tell them
And that doesn’t just mean your significant other. You have friends and family that you probably don’t say this to enough.
Expressing your love for others can actually make you feel really happy and complete. In order to have a happy life, spread that love around and you’ll receive a lot more in return.
37. Let go of taking the “right path”
We all have an idea of how we want our lives to turn out. Maybe you want to become a millionaire or the lead singer of a famous rock band. [Read: How to be a good person and transform your world]
But obsessing over a specific outcome won’t lead to happiness. By focusing on a specific goal, you miss out on opportunities for happiness.
38. Be present
If you want to feel happiness, be present. Worrying about what will happen in the future or past will only work to take you out of the moment.
The past has happened, and the future can’t be determined. Quit focusing on things that aren’t relevant to the present moment. Once you stop thinking about the past and future, you’ll relax and enjoy your life.
39. You choose your own definition of success
When it comes to learning the secret to happiness and success, most of us think of it in terms of monetary and material goods. [Read: How to be successful in life]
He’s so successful, he has his own car and apartment, or, She’s so successful, she has her own business and the latest Prada bag.
What did you just read there? The word success was automatically tied to status and financial wealth. And that’s complete crap.
You decide what success means to you. If you follow society’s definition of success, you’ll always chase something you’ll never have.
40. Focus on things that make you happy
When it comes to self-sabotage, humans are the best at it. We always go against the things that make us truly happy. Commit to what makes you happy. [Read: How to focus on yourself – 17 ways to make your own sunshine]
If not, you’ll always be drawn away from it. Once you’re committed, no one will be able to take away what makes you happy.
41. Prioritize your time
Most of us spend our time on things that don’t matter. We focus on small, mindless tasks because it makes us feel like we’re achieving something.
But in reality, we’re not doing anything. Instead, focus on doing things that are important to you, whether it’s seeing friends or family, exercising, or sitting down to read a book. [Read: How to stop glorifying busy and start living instead]
42. Do something out of your comfort zone
If you want to be happy, challenge yourself. Now, you probably thought being happy meant doing things you want to do.
But being happy also means doing things that scare you. The secret to happiness is tied to personal growth. If you’re not happy, you’re not growing.
43. You don’t need to be the best
Being happy isn’t about being the best. Happiness isn’t a competition. This also means you shouldn’t copy someone else’s routine for happiness.
You are your own person. Never follow someone else’s path to happiness because you won’t end up any happier. [Read: How to discover self-love and the keys to happiness]
44. Get rid of toxic people in your life
Let go of all the idiots who belittle you, want to see you fail, make you cry, stress you out, and make you feel bad about yourself. They are undeserving of your time and certainly don’t need to be in your life.
It may be hard to cut some people out, particularly if they’re close friends and family, but sometimes, you have to do what’s best for you.
Down the road, you can consider building bridges again, but until you can be completely happy with your life, focus on you and not on them. [Read: Toxic friends you should avoid]
45. Don’t be so competitive
There’s nothing wrong with doing a great job, but once you start worrying about what others are up to and try to outdo them, that’s when things get ugly. Let go of your competitive nature for a calmer and happier life.
When you’re trying to outdo everyone around you, the pressure and stress of performing will get to you, and it’s only a matter of time before you crack.
Not just that, withholding goodwill towards others and hoping for their failure is not a good look on you. [Read: How to stop being jealous of other people’s success]
46. Stop yearning for money
Of course, money matters. It really does, and the more you have, the more likely you will lead a comfortable life. However, that’s all it is. Money and comfort give you the illusion of happiness, as they command stuff that you don’t need.
Always remember that no matter how much money you have, you will never have enough, so there’s really no point in giving up your time and beautiful relationships to make any more than what’s going to offer you a comfortable life.
47. Don’t blame other people
You have to give up your need to blame someone for whatever mishaps you meet. [Read: How to stop being toxic – 19 steps to not be bitter or blame others]
From arguing about who left the porch light on to whose fault it was in the breakup, stop pointing fingers at everyone, including yourself. Once you stop worrying about who to blame, you can start fixing the problem and moving on.
48. Don’t wait for the “right time”
Timing may be everything when it comes to certain things like crossing the street and getting to the airport on time. However, in the grand scheme of things, if you want something, you have to make it happen now.
Don’t wait until the stars align, because it’s not going to happen. All you really need is the feeling that it’s the right thing to do. [Read: Should I tell him I like him? 17 signs and ways to pick the right time]
Whether it’s quitting your job or getting married, now is as good a time as any because, as morbid as it may seem, you don’t know if you have tomorrow.
49. Stop any obsessive behavior
Control your mind and give up obsessing over silly things. Worrying about why he didn’t call or why she said that or why he did that or why they behaved that way will never get you anywhere.
Obsessing over things that you can’t change is a surefire way to be miserable. You need to realize that life goes on no matter what, so don’t dwell on petty things that you can live without. [Read: Signs of obsession – signs of obsessive love that you can’t ignore]
50. Don’t be closed minded
Another way to lead a happier life is to give up close-mindedness and invite in new ideas, people, places, beliefs, and experiences. When you see the world through someone else’s eyes, you open your mind to life’s endless possibilities.
You will find that there’s no one way to do something, but rather, there are myriad options out there. Traveling is a wonderful way to see the world through someone else’s perspective, so plan your great, mind-opening escape soon.
51. Stop being so materialistic
Material wealth is the silliest way to gauge happiness, and you need to snap out of that mindset now. [Read: Hypergamy – what it is, the good, bad and 24 truths about women marrying up]
The lonely woman in New York who owns a thousand pairs of $500 shoes is no happier than the barefooted woman in Indonesia with a loving family.
It’s all a matter of changing your perspective on what makes a person wealthy. Once you can understand that, only then will you be happy. [Read: Sugar baby – what it is, 69 tips to be a good one, and get a rich sugar daddy]
52. Stop being so judgmental
To lead a happier life, you have to stop judging other people. Why should you care what someone else is doing? The only reason you disapprove is that they’re not living their life according to your rules, and why on earth should they do that?
If your widowed father knows what he’s doing and wants to date a woman half his age, then so be it. If your coworker wants to dress that way, then so what?
So long as it makes them happy and puts a smile on their face, you have no right to judge and say that they should do things differently. [Read: Lessons to help you deal with judgmental people]
53. Give up your guilt
You will never be able to move on and be truly happy in life if you’re bogged down by the anchor of guilt.
Stop thinking about what you could have said differently, what you should have done instead, what if you had been nicer, or what if you had been more patient.
We are all haunted by guilt. Whether it came about from something that we did or didn’t do, there’s no changing the outcome. [Read: Guilty conscience – what it is and 21 emotional signs of guilt people feel]
Let all the guilt go, and if you are able to, start making amends. You will not only feel better, but you will also realize just how much you can grow from the experience.
54. Stop making excuses
If you really want to do something, you will get it done. Human history has taught us that anything is possible if you want to do it, so give up making excuses today. They are nothing but hindrances to you living the life that you’re supposed to live.
Whether it’s procrastinating working on your thesis or convincing yourself that you shouldn’t leave your abusive husband, stop making excuses right now. [Read: Big telltale excuses that get you nowhere]
Once you figure out why you’re doing something, you will be able to do anything to get there.
55. Release all your fears
Everything from starting your own business to asking a girl out on a date takes courage and gusto. Nothing good ever came out of being afraid.
Sure, some may argue that being cautious is a projection of fear, but that’s not true. If you hold on to fear and refuse to take risks, you will never know just how high you can jump. [Read: Autophobia – what it is, 25 signs, causes, and how to calm the fear of being alone]
What’s the worst that could happen? You fail and end up back where you were? If that happens, at least you can say that you tried and you will be much braver the next time you take a risk.
56. Ignore other people’s expectation
Of course, there are certain things that you have to take responsibility for, such as providing for your family, being a supportive friend, and so on. However, unless you’re the government, you shouldn’t be doing what other people expect you to.
Don’t feel pressure from your parents to get married, don’t let your friends goad you into thinking that your job doesn’t pay well enough, and don’t let your spouse tell you that you’re a disappointment. [Read: 20 signs you’re a people pleaser and you don’t know it]
At the very least, take whatever is thrown at you and convert that into constructive criticism. There’s nothing wrong with improving your life, but just be sure that you’re not doing so just to please other people.
57. Give up your need for attention
The moment you give up your need for attention, you will immediately be a much happier person. This is perhaps one of the hardest things to give up because our world is so ingrained in our need to get others’ approval. [Read: 16 attention whore signs to watch out for]
Everything from counting the number of likes on Instagram to posting rubbish on Facebook, all count as attention-seeking tendencies.
You should be doing things to impress yourself, and not the 2000 friends and followers that you have on social media.
58. Give up your conventional life
You should give up living a conventional life if you want to know the meaning of true happiness. We live in a world that others have dictated for us. [Read: How to broaden your horizons and get out of your comfort zone for good]
From how we are educated to who we are today, it is all part of a bigger plan mapped out for us by society and those pulling its strings. Break free from the chains that they have determined and choose your own life path.
Now, you don’t have to do something extreme like go live in a bunker commune in the middle of nowhere. You should just inject something worthwhile into your life. Travel more and pursue your passions.
See how other people around the world are living and learn from them. Speak to people who lead unconventional lives, hold unconventional jobs, and absorb their passion for living. [Read: 34 steps to stop feeling sad and break out of the comfortable misery of sadness]
Life is more than a 9-5 job, having a mortgage, owning an SUV, and all the other conventional jazz.
59. Don’t look back
Your past may define who you are now, but that’s all it’s meant to do, so stop living in it. How are you supposed to move on if you can’t let go of what happened?
If he cheated, move on. If she took half of your money during the divorce proceedings, get over it. If you experienced something traumatizing, take the necessary steps to let it go. [Read: How to let go of the past and be excited by the future]
Sign up for some therapy if you have to, but don’t let the past taint your future. Remember that it’s never too late to start fresh.
60. Meditate
Meditation used to be just for hippies, but now, everyone’s doing it. Why? Because it works. Join yoga or take five minutes and sit on your couch breathing in and out.
Your mind is going a million miles a minute and you’re constantly in thought. So, why not give it a rest and just focus on your breaths? [Read: 15 ways to become someone who always says, “I love my life!”]
Do this for a week, and you’ll notice a lightness in your mind and body.
61. Write it out
Another tip for how to feel happy is to write. Writing is a great way to get everything out of your system. All of your emotions and thoughts, just write them down. It’s a form of therapy.
Get yourself a journal and just start writing things down. It doesn’t have to sound good, and your spelling doesn’t matter. This is just about expressing yourself and relieving your emotions.
62. Fill your time
You shouldn’t be sitting around dwelling on things you should and shouldn’t have done, because it won’t help you whatsoever. [Read: Steps to change your life and find happiness]
So, fill your time and keep your mind busy with other things, and more…productive thoughts. If you sit on your couch all day, it won’t make you feel any happier.
63. Brighten your space
If you want to know how to feel happy, you need to surround yourself with happy things. Open the blinds, put some flowers next to your bed, and make sure that the space you’re living in is light.
And, please, clear the clutter. Get rid of all the dirty underwear on the floor and the eight-year-old magazines lying under your bed. A clear space means a clear mind.
64. Get off social media
You need a break. Sure, social media keeps you connected and you get validation for how hot you are, but you’re not focusing on the right things. [Read: Social media detox – ways to wean yourself off social media]
You don’t need the validation of how hot you are. You need human connection. So, get off social media and go out with some friends. Who cares about Kim Kardashian anyways?
65. Stay away from the fast food
Okay, first, fast food is terrible for you. It actually aids in making you feel like shit. It’s full of trans-fats and processed crap, so this not only makes you feel lethargic and lazy, but it brings you down mentally.
You have to eat fruits and vegetables if you want to help yourself feel happier. [Read: Happy things you need for a perfectly happy life]
66. More quality time
Just a couple of decades ago, life was blissfully perfect. Exchanging letters in the mail took a few days and reading books while lazing on the hammock was a daily routine.
But things have changed. Relaxing is a drink after work. Life is fast today, and the time for relaxing just doesn’t exist unless you’re a god of multitasking.
But even in these hectic times, pause your life and step aside if you want to enjoy life. Spend your weekend relaxing or talking with your loved ones. [Read: How to overcome regret]
Time passes by too quickly, and before you know it, you may be old and lost without any memories other than counting money.
It’s great to be successful, but at the cost of your happiness? It’s just not worth it. Success makes sense when you have loved ones to share it with. And taking a break now and then would make you happier and feel more connected with your loved ones.
67. Enjoy the simple things in life
Good times don’t always last forever. You may have spent the last year and a half working hard and living in non-communicative lives just so you and your partner could save up that extra bit for a vacation this summer. [Read: How to find your passion – 17 secrets to seek it in simple things]
But you have to remember that good times don’t always have to wait for that perfect opportune moment.
Grab the proverbial simple things in life. Share more sunsets, walks, and candlelight dinners in the backyard together. Spend some time just reminiscing about the good old days, or talking about those special moments that you remember fondly.
Sometimes, the simplest things can bring more joy to us than the most expensive vacation in Paris or a holiday in Bora Bora. Pay more attention to what happens all year round rather than one or two special days. [Read: Simple things you do that make your life much worse]
68. Learn something new
Now, this might seem like going back to school or a project in art class. But it’s really not. Your life isn’t valued by money. It’s valued by experiences and moments. Very few people realize that until it’s too late.
If you want to experience new things, you need to learn new things, whether it’s cooking or learning how to play the guitar. Each and every new thing you learn will give you a lot of happy experiences that you can share with your loved ones.
And some of the happiest moments in life are the ones that are shared with someone we truly love. [Read: I don’t know what to do with my life]
69. Take calculated risks
Are you dissatisfied with your job? Or are you unhappy about your love handles? It doesn’t matter what it is, but the time to change all that is now.
Why settle for less when you know it can be better? If you really want to know how to enjoy life, you need to take a calculated leap of faith.
So, if you’ve always wanted to do something, do it. If it involves a big decision, speak with your loved ones and do something to get the ball rolling. [Read: 18 ways to become more spontaneous and enjoy life a lot more]
We love fantasizing about our dreams, but those very fantasies can also be very frustrating when you fail. Work towards your goals, one step at a time.
Your milestones don’t have to rocket upwards in one go. Start easy and set little milestones for yourself, so you can achieve that one biggie you’ve been eyeing for so long. [Read: Feeling stuck in life? How to change directions and live your dream]
It’s easy to whine and grumble about how unfair life is or how unhappy you are, but what you need to understand is that happiness is only a state of mind and change is in your own hands.
70. Practice daily
Who thought you needed to practice being happy? Since we’re wired to survive and spot danger, happiness isn’t necessarily natural for most of us. [Quiz: How far will you go for success?]
If you want to be happy, you’ll need to practice because no one is responsible for your own happiness.
Final thoughts
Being happy isn’t about owning a new car or having the latest iPhone. Those are just momentary flashes of joy that come from owning a material item.
It wanes and disappears pretty quickly. Instead, focus on people, health, and experiences and notice how much better you feel for it.
[Read: How to find happiness within yourself and manifest a better tomorrow]
Now that you have some tools for how to feel happy, it’s time to start putting them to use. It may be a struggle in the beginning, but soon enough, you’ll notice a huge difference.
