How to be happy
“Happiness is not out there, it is within you” – Anonymous
Photo by Caju Gomes on Unsplash
Over 60% of viewsbankers told us that they feel happy most of the time, with 30% feeling either sad or grumpy more often than not.
Happiness isn’t something that just happens to you, and you don’t learn how to be happy at school. From a young age we’re conditioned to set goals and aim high, always seeking further success, and yet this way of thinking is more likely to make us more miserable.
Behavioural experts have spent lots of time studying what makes us happy (and what doesn’t). We know that the level of happiness can impact, and sometimes predict, general health and longevity.
Being happy and fulfilled is not easy, and it requires a lot of work on your part to prioritise rather than chase happiness.
Here’s what some of our members had to say when we asked about their general mood:
“Each day can bring various emotions on how one is feeling that day.I try to be positive and don't let trivial things get to me. A happy person a happy life.”
“Always happy. Stay positive and positive will things will happen.”
“Depends who I am with. They can make it better or worse.”
So how can we become happier?
Happiness comes from within. It’s time we learn how to tame negative thought patterns and take a new approach to life.
1. Recognise what makes YOU happy
You are responsible for your happiness. It’s time to make a list of all the things that make you happy. Whether that is sitting in the garden with a book, meeting up with friends, watching a movie or going for a walk. Whatever it is, it is important to prioritise your time to fit these activities into your life.
2. Conquer negative thinking
It is natural to tend to have negative thoughts, but there are lots of ways to combat these, starting with having more compassion for yourself. You need to treat yourself like you would a friend. Don’t be afraid to challenge your thought process, make a list of the things bothering you and understand whether it realistic.
3. Get up and get moving
There is considerable evidence that physical activity is directly linked to psychological health. Even just going for a quick 15-minute walk can lift your mood.
4. Be kind and practice optimism
In a poll we asked if we could all do more to make other people happy. A massive 96% said yes. Thinking positively and surrounding yourself with positive people really does help. Remember, optimism is infectious.
Here’s what some of our members do to boost their mood:
“When I'm feeling like I can't be bothered, I put on my 60s CDs, and that brightens my mood. I even enjoy dancing about when I do the house work. That's magic!!!”
“Great thoughts to try. Just been listening to Little Wing by the late great Jimi Hendrix. Nice and loud.”
What do you do to be happy? We’d love to hear your experiences. Let us know in the comments below.