Secrets to a Happier Life

Happiness is not something anyone else can give us or take away from us. Happiness is what we make of our lives or don’t. Whatever our circumstances, we can create a joyful or miserable life. It is up to us.

Take Note of What Makes You Happy and Unhappy

First, take some time and think about the things you do. What makes you happy? What makes you unhappy? Sometimes people do things because they think they have to, but if they’re unhappy doing these things, they should consider doing them less or not at all. So when you realize something makes you unhappy, make a mental note to do less of it or stop doing it altogether if you can. When you realize something makes you happy, make a mental note to do more of it for a happier life.

Where You Are and Who You’re With

It’s not just about what you’re doing. It’s also about where you are and who you’re with. Look around you. Do you feel happier here than in other places? If you do, spend more time there; if you don’t, find another spot that makes you feel good. Next, look at the person you’re with. Do they make you happier than other people you’ve spent time with? If they do, spend more time with them. Suppose they don’t spend little or no time with them. This concept may not seem like a secret to you, but you’d be surprised how many people fall down the rabbit hole of unhappiness because they don’t do the things that make them happy, go to the places that make them happy or spend time with the people who make them happy. Good places and good people make for a happier life.

A Happy Home

When you think about your home, does it make you smile? Or does it frustrate and aggravate you? “There’s no place like home,” but if thinking about your home doesn’t bring a smile to your face, then it may be time to change something about it. If moving isn’t an option, you can still do many things to make your home happier. First, give your home a good cleaning. Get rid of old clothes and old furniture. Get rid of gifts from people who are no longer in your life. Paint the walls a bright color and start a garden. Do whatever you can to create a home environment that makes you happy. A happier home is part of a happier life.

A Happier Job

Do you enjoy what you do for a living? Do you feel excited every morning while you get ready for work? How about your boss? Are they kind and fair or micromanaging tyrants? You spend a lot of time at work, so it’s important for you to be happy there. If you love your job, there’s no need to change it to be happier, but you should do something about it if you don’t love it. First, look for a new and better job. If corporate life isn’t for you, look for jobs where you can work from home. Or, consider opening your own business and working for yourself. If none of these ideas are an option, think about ways to make your personal life more fulfilling, so work issues bother you less. Then, if you have something to look forward to after a hard day of work, you’ll live a happier life.

Your Happiness Meter

If your happiness meter is low, try these quick fixes: You can dance, sing, make music, make love, or play an instrument. You can watch a sunset with a loved one or get a four-legged companion. You can start eating better and exercising—just get moving and be active. Remember to be grateful for what you already have. Gratefulness is the key to a happier life. And learn to forgive—yourself and others. It’s time to get happier!