What are the true keys to happiness? Jim Rohn said, “Happiness is not something you postpone for the future; it is something you design for the present.” So we must take happiness by the horns and attempt to achieve it ourselves, but how? While this question is often difficult (arguably impossible) to answer, we did some research into what generally makes people happy and also came up with six ways you can try to achieve happiness for yourselves. Happiness is often attributed to variations in individual circumstance, however, contrary to popular belief only about 10% of varying reports of happiness have to do with a person’s unique circumstance. So then what must be behind happiness? Personality. Everyone looks different, acts different, talks different, and just plain is different. We all adapt to specific situations differently based on the variations in our personalities. So we’re all different, but there’s still a few ways we can achieve happiness. If you attempt to do the following few things, you may just feel a bit better every day.
1. Live in the Present
Drake says “you only live once,” and he’s right. If you get caught up with what has happened in the past or the multiple possibilities of what will happen in the future, you will only become worried, even consumed by the unknown. This doesn’t mean that you should go about your day skip studying for that test this week. What it means is that you should always be in the present moment. Don’t let outside factors, such as stress, effect who you are and how you perform. This also means that you should be constantly aware of your surroundings. Who is there? What is there? Listen to sounds, look around, etc. This can be an incredibly helpful meditative tool.
2. Manage Stress
Don’t let stress take over your life. Eating the right foods, getting good exercise, sunlight and enough sleep will all assist you in managing your stress. Meditation will also help to manage stress.
3. Smile
Smiling is a universal language. If you smile, it actually triggers hormones that will naturally make you and the people around you happier. Even forcing yourself to smile will automatically lighten up your mood and make you a happier, healthier person.
4. Give it Your All
Keep yourself busy! Don’t get caught sitting on the couch, watching t.v. To be happy, you need to pursue happiness. Go outside, have a sporadic dance party, get involved in a sport, whatever your niche is, find it and pursue it but don’t let it take over your life.
5. Lead and Be Lead
Becoming a part of a club or even starting one yourself will give you a sense of purpose. When you feel like you are a part of something bigger, it can make you a better and happier person.
6. Spend Time with Family and Friends
When it comes down to it, they are the people that care about you the most. Show them the utmost amount of love and compassion, and in return they will give you the same. Never let other aspects of life out-duel your friends and family. When you feel upset at them, remember all that they have done for you and how much they truly care.
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